Rahul Gandhi’s Yatras: Big Crowds, Loud Cheers, But No Revival for Congress
Image via The Indian Express
September 7, 2025 – New Delhi. A new column by journalist Tavleen Singh has once again raised a sharp question: Why do Rahul Gandhi’s yatras pull massive crowds but fail to revive the Congress Party? In her piece published today, Singh paints a detailed picture of the contrast between popular street shows and weak political results.
A Parade of Political Princes
Two weeks ago, a striking image came from Bihar. Rahul Gandhi rode in an open jeep with young regional leaders like Tejashwi Yadav, Akhilesh Yadav, and M.K. Stalin. Together, they waved to cheering crowds in narrow town lanes. Slogans filled the air. The most repeated was “Vote chor, gaddi chhod”—translated as “stealer of votes, step down.”
The scene looked powerful. It carried echoes of past freedom marches and democratic processions. To many supporters, it felt like history repeating. Yet Singh warns that the picture was also a symbol of “democratic feudalism.” India still treats its political families as princes and rulers. This yatra became another parade of political heirs rather than a movement of new ideas.
The Power and Limits of Yatras
Rahul Gandhi has perfected the art of yatras. His long walks and road shows bring energy. They attract students, workers, and unemployed youth. They give hope to those angry with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
But, Singh argues, the energy does not last. Once the yatra ends, Congress workers disappear into silence. They do not build local networks, strengthen booths, or set up party structures. Instead, they wait for the next grand event. As a result, Congress gains applause but not votes.
Slogans, Insults, and Empty Promises
At the heart of these yatras are attacks on Prime Minister Modi. Some of them turn crude. In one rally, a supporter insulted Modi’s mother. Modi replied angrily, calling it childish. The BJP turned the moment into a loud controversy. Singh believes the strong reaction shows Modi’s nervousness. Anti-incumbency feelings are rising, especially in Bihar. But she also warns that the Opposition cannot win only with insults.
Rahul Gandhi also makes big claims. He said Modi would steal ration cards, land, and votes. But Singh points out there is no proof. Such warnings may sound exciting, but they weaken credibility. In today’s noisy politics, exaggeration may grab attention. Yet without facts, it cannot build lasting trust.
Modi’s Setbacks and Congress’s Missed Chance
The columnist also highlights Modi’s recent troubles. Internationally, his former ally Donald Trump sidelined him. Modi then turned to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation for comfort. At home, Bihar’s voter revision drive has triggered allegations of discrimination against minorities. These moments could have been an opportunity for Congress.
But instead of presenting fresh ideas or policies, Congress spends its energy only on yatras. According to Singh, this is a waste. Voters may dislike Modi, but they do not yet see Rahul Gandhi as the better option.
Poll Numbers Tell the Story
Singh refers to a Mood of the Nation poll by India Today. The results are worrying for Congress. Around 52% of voters still think Modi is the best leader. Only 25% of voters see Rahul Gandhi as a serious challenger. Last year, his number was 29%. That means Rahul has lost ground instead of gaining.
This is the real problem. Yatras may inspire photos, videos, and headlines. But polls show that they do not change the mind of the larger electorate.
A Liberal’s Disappointment
Singh writes as a self-declared liberal democrat. She believes India needs liberal democracy and free markets to balance BJP’s ideology. For her, Congress should play this role. But the party remains weak even after losing three Lok Sabha elections in a row.
She admits that Congress has a painful past. The 1984 anti-Sikh violence and economic mistakes of earlier governments remain dark chapters. Yet she also believes Congress once represented inclusive values. It stood for secularism and democracy. These values are still needed in India today, but the party has failed to carry them forward with strength.
Rahul Gandhi’s Image Problem
Rahul Gandhi has improved his personal image. During yatras, he looks simple. He shakes hands, hugs children, and speaks in casual tones. He tries to be a prince with a common touch. The crowd enjoys this. But Singh stresses that politics is not theatre. A political party cannot survive only on images and slogans. It needs local workers, serious policies, and a clear vision.
Right now, Congress does not have these things. It relies too heavily on Rahul Gandhi’s personality. Without structure, yatras become only a show.
The Harsh Reality
The conclusion is blunt. Yatras inspire, but they do not build. They entertain, but they do not organize. They give Rahul Gandhi media coverage, but they do not give Congress election victories.
For many, this is a tragedy. India’s oldest national party is unable to rise, even when Modi faces growing criticism. Unless Rahul Gandhi changes strategy—building cadres, listening to ground workers, and offering real policies—the Congress Party will continue to fade.
Singh’s column is a reminder. In politics, energy without structure is like fire without fuel. It burns bright for a moment, then vanishes into smoke.