10-day padyatra from Ayodhya to Prayagraj planned by AAP

Lucknow: While an across-the-country 'padayatra' (travel on foot) titled 'Bharat Jodo' of the Congress, led by former Congress President Rahul Gandhi, has been hitting the headlines and the Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) has embarked on its 'Savdhan Yatra', the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has also announced a padyatra from Ayodhya to Prayagraj.

The AAP yatra is tipped to attract the youth ahead of the upcoming local body elections. It also has definite Hindu overtones since it begins from one pilgrim centre (Ayodhya) and culminates at another (Prayagraj) in Uttar Pradesh.

To be led by AAP's UP in-charge and MP Sanjay Singh, the campaign will start on October 31, the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel and conclude on November 10.

The 'Mehangai Bhagao, Rozgar Bachao' padyatra -- 'Saryu se Sangam Tak', will begin after taking blessings of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, said the party's state spokesperson Mahendra Singh.

He said that the party workers, supporters and common people will take part in the padyatra, which will try to raise awareness about the rising inflation in the country and the growing unemployment.

"AAP is in the process of strengthening its base in UP. In October, we will be focussing on selection of candidates. This yatra will start when that process will be in its final stage. Both issues being raised in it have a deep connect with people. Inflation has affected every single family while unemployment is a pressing issue for the youth," said Singh.

The distance of 120-km-long padyatra is planned to be covered in 10 days with stoppages to interact with people.

Party sources said that campaigns such as padyatras have a lot of resonance with the youth and the party, which is working on establishing itself in Uttar Pradesh, this segment will be very crucial.

(Based on IANS feed)