In a striking testament to civic enthusiasm, Mokokchung welcomed the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, etching out an indelible memory for the town. The yatra, led by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, drew thousands of citizens from all walks of life, underlining the resonance of political engagement in the region. As one of his final stops in Nagaland before heading to Assam, Gandhi’s presence ignited the streets, generating tangible excitement.
Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Mokokchung not only stirred political fervor but also shed light on the pressing issues facing Nagaland and the Northeast. The call for justice and equality resonated strongly, echoing the need for comprehensive development and recognition of the region’s cultural richness within the diversity of India. Addressing the gathering, Gandhi emphasized the Northeast’s equal importance, condemning the RSS-BJP for cultural assaults. He addressed issues like neglected roads in Nagaland, expressing concern for youth and highlighting disparities with other states. He also criticized the Prime Minister’s absence in Manipur and the stalled ‘Naga Accord’. While lauding Naga values, his call for a compassionate society and a commitment to address Nagaland’s concerns in Delhi resonated well. Or so it appeared.
Judging by the visuals of the yatra from both Manipur and Nagaland, the yatra seems to have been well received. It appears the Congress in both states, and the whole NE region for that matter where the party was in power until recent times, has the capacity to make a comeback. However, the common refrain is that the NE states usually toe the line of the government of the day at the centre. Nonetheless, the biggest takeaway is that Rahul Gandhi chose the Kohima-Tseminyu-Wokha-Mokokchung-Assam route when he could have conveniently chosen the Kohima-Dimapur-Assam route.