Saturday, March 29, 2025
Patna, August 1, 2025 – A new political storm is brewing in Bihar over the upcoming release of the state’s updated voter list. In response, Congress is preparing to launch a large-scale protest in the form of a padyatra (foot march), with senior leaders Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav set to participate prominently.
According to sources, the march is likely to begin on August 10 from Sasaram and span approximately 15 days, covering 22 districts of Bihar. The aim is to rally public opinion around alleged irregularities in the voter list and to refocus attention on electoral transparency.
This voter awareness campaign will adopt a hybrid model. Leaders will walk through some regions while using vehicles for other stretches of the journey. The march is designed to be both symbolic and strategic, aiming to connect directly with voters at the grassroots level.
Both Rahul Gandhi and Tejashwi Yadav are key figures in the INDIA alliance and are expected to use this platform to reignite political momentum in Bihar. The voter list issue is being positioned as a significant public concern, particularly after the opposition lost traction over the caste census narrative.
Political observers note that the Mahagathbandhan (Grand Alliance) suffered a narrative setback after the BJP pre-emptively took ownership of caste-based policies. Now, with the Election Commission preparing to publish the revised voter list, the opposition senses a new opportunity to reclaim public attention.
Sources within Congress suggest the party believes the voter list issue can be framed as a broader fight for electoral justice, fairness, and representation — particularly among marginalized and backward communities.
The march is expected to see mass participation from local leaders, civil society groups, and youth organizations. Planning meetings have already begun in district headquarters, with security arrangements and route logistics being finalized.
