Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra connected with all demographics, says Avinash Pande

Nagpur: A seasoned Congress leader and lawyer by profession, Avinash Pande is no stranger to Maharashtra’s political landscape. Rising through the ranks of the party’s student and youth wings from Nagpur, he served in key roles at both state and national levels. Now a Congress Working Committee (CWC) member and All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary in charge of Jharkhand, Pande recently visited the TOI-MT office here, where he laid out the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s (MVA) roadmap for the assembly elections.

Excerpts from an exclusive interview:

1. What’s your assessment of MVA’s chances in the upcoming elections?
2. I’m confident the MVA will secure between 175 and 200 seats out of 288. There’s a palpable wave of anti-incumbency across Maharashtra. People are reeling under inflation, joblessness, and the loss of major industrial projects to other states. This govt has failed to fulfil its promises, and voters are ready for a change.
3. What specific factors have fuelled this discontent?
4. The BJP-led govt’s failures are multifaceted. Inflation and unemployment spiralled out of control. Key industrial projects like Vedanta-Foxconn left Maharashtra, resulting in significant economic and job losses. Add to this the lack of cohesion among the coalition partners in the govt, and you have a governance crisis that the people can no longer tolerate.
5. What is the MVA’s plan to address these issues?
6. The MVA’s reform agenda is designed to be both transformative and inclusive. It includes the Mahalaxmi Yojana, which offers Rs3,000 per month to women, free bus travel for women and girls, and farm loan waivers of up to Rs3 lakh with a Rs50,000 incentive for timely repayment. We also aim to conduct a caste-based census and lift the 50% reservation cap to ensure equitable opportunities. Another highlight is our promise of free healthcare and medicines, with coverage of up to Rs25 lakh for underprivileged families. These measures reflect our commitment to grass-roots empowerment and economic justice.
7. How do you perceive Rahul Gandhi’s role in shaping Congress and connecting with voters?
8. Rahul Gandhi’s transformation is remarkable. The Bharat Jodo Yatra showcased his genuine connection with people across all demographics. His interactions — be it with labourers, craftsmen or marginalised communities — are not mere optics. He listens, empathises, and acts. This makes him a relatable and visionary leader for today’s India.
9. BJP has launched aggressive campaigns with catchy slogans. What’s your response?
10. Their slogans, like “Ek Hai To Safe Hai” are shallow attempts to divert attention from their lack of achievements. BJP leaders are busy with rhetoric while the public demands accountability. People are asking, “What has the BJP done in the last two years?” Unfortunately, there’s no substantial answer.
11. Why is the caste census so critical to your agenda?
12. A caste census will expose the demographic realities and ensure fair allocation of resources. We want reservation policies to benefit the economically weaker sections across all communities, including Brahmins. This is about creating an inclusive and equitable society.
13. How is MVA ensuring unity among its allies?
14. Unlike the BJP, the MVA is united and focused. Senior Congress leaders and former chief ministers like Ashok Gehlot and Bhupesh Baghel are working to strengthen grass roots connections. Our alliance is driven by shared goals and a clear vision for Maharashtra’s future.
15. What message would you like to convey to Maharashtra’s voters?
16. Maharashtra deserves better governance. The MVA is committed to delivering on its promises and ensuring progress for every citizen. This election is about reclaiming the state’s lost glory and building a better future for all.

Courtesy : TOI

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