The Bharat Jodo Yatra and Nyay Yatra significantly transformed Rahul Gandhi's image, presenting him as a hands-on and grounded leader. Throughout these campaigns, he consistently repeated his strong message to save the country from a dictatorial regime, often saying, "Nafrat ke bazaar mein mohabbat ki dukaan lagaane aaya hoon."
About two years ago, when Rahul Gandhi began the Bharat Jodo Yatra from Kanyakumari to Kashmir, BJP leaders ridiculed his efforts to unite the country. Despite this, he traveled over 4,500 kilometers across more than 12 states from September 2022 to January 2023, engaging with diverse groups and criticizing the BJP's divisive politics.
During the yatra, Gandhi walked nearly 24 kilometers daily, meeting various people and facing numerous political attacks. Before the Lok Sabha elections, he launched the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, traversing from eastern to western India. The BJP's failure to secure a majority in the Lok Sabha is partly attributed to Gandhi's cross-country march.
These yatras gave Rahul Gandhi a new image as a relatable and grounded leader, with the Congress portraying him as a "Jananayak" or people's leader, committed to defending the Constitution. His consistent attacks on PM Modi and focus on youth, women, and pro-poor issues resonated with many. He often interacted with people in everyday settings, presenting himself as a "neta-next-door."
Gandhi's efforts also pressured other Opposition leaders to join forces with the Congress against Narendra Modi in the 2024 elections. His vocal support for minority issues attracted their backing, compelling regional leaders like Akhilesh Yadav to align with him. Additionally, Gandhi's support for allies like Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar during political turmoil in Maharashtra reinforced the Congress's commitment to its partners.
Rahul Gandhi made it clear that the coalition's unity was paramount, assuring allies that the Congress was not aiming for the prime minister's post and promoting collective decision-making. This approach helped solidify a strong alliance.
Advocating for a caste census, Gandhi pushed for social justice, adding this call to the party manifesto. His stance on social justice and his attacks on business tycoons like Gautam Adani and Mukesh Ambani further cemented his pro-poor image, attracting a significant section of the Scheduled Castes electorate back to the Congress.
