Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra: Rahul Gandhi addresses Assam students amid controversy, 'You must not blindly obey'

Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra: In a twist of events, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi found himself addressing a spontaneous gathering of students near USTM University at the Assam-Meghalaya border after his official invitation to the university was revoked following an alleged intervention by the Union Home Minister. Undeterred, Gandhi used the opportunity to discuss pressing issues, decrying the alleged suppression of voices and individual freedoms under the current government.

Controversy Surrounding USTM Interaction

Originally scheduled to interact with several hundred students at USTM University, Rahul Gandhi faced a setback when the Chief Minister's office in Assam intervened, leading to the cancellation of his invitation. However, in the true spirit of his ongoing Yatra, Gandhi engaged with around a hundred students at a nearby hotel.

Gandhi Highlights Suppression of Voices

Addressing the impromptu gathering, Rahul Gandhi expressed concern over what he perceives as a broader issue – the stifling of individual freedoms and voices. He asserted that students across the country are being instructed not to cultivate their own imagination but to unquestioningly adhere to the directives of the RSS and the nation's leadership.

Importance of Freedom of Expression

Gandhi underscored the significance of allowing students to listen to diverse perspectives, emphasizing that the suppression of voices is not limited to Assam alone but extends across universities, colleges, and schools nationwide. He maintained that the right to have an independent imagination is a fundamental aspect of a democratic society.

Yatra Continues Despite Hurdles

Despite the hurdles faced at USTM University, the Yatra bus continued its journey, passing the intended location where a sizable group of students had gathered on the road to catch a glimpse of Rahul Gandhi. The spontaneous interaction outside the university became a platform for Gandhi to address issues of democratic values, individual freedoms, and the right to diverse opinions.