BJP's Promises for Kerala Assembly Elections: Free LPG and Welfare Initiatives

BJP's Election Manifesto Highlights

On Tuesday, the National Democratic Alliance, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Kerala Assembly elections, pledging to provide two free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders annually to economically disadvantaged households.

BJP president Nitin Nabin announced that if the alliance secures victory, families in need will receive one complimentary cylinder during the festive occasions of Onam and Christmas. This commitment comes in light of ongoing LPG shortages across various regions of the country, attributed to the conflict in West Asia.

During an event held in Thiruvananthapuram, Nabin also promised the establishment of a high-speed rail network linking the state capital with Kannur, along with a provision of 20,000 liters of free water for each household.

Regarding the Mullaperiyar dam, the BJP assured that it would guarantee water supply for Tamil Nadu while ensuring safety for Kerala. This 130-year-old dam has been a contentious issue, with Kerala raising concerns about its structural integrity, while Tamil Nadu argues it is crucial for irrigation and drinking water in several districts.

The NDA's manifesto further includes a proposal to issue a Bhakshya Arogya Suraksha Card to all women from below-poverty-line households, which will be loaded with a monthly amount of Rs 2,500 for use at pharmacies and grocery stores.

Additionally, the manifesto promises a monthly welfare pension of Rs 3,000 for women heads of poor families, widows, and senior citizens aged over 70.

The Kerala Assembly elections are scheduled for April 9, with results to be declared on May 4. The BJP has formed alliances with the Bharath Dharma Jana Sena, Kerala Kamaraj Congress, Janathipathiya Samrakshana Samithy (Thamarakshan faction), and the Twenty20 party for this election.

The NDA will compete against the ruling Left Democratic Front and the United Democratic Front, which is the primary opposition coalition.