Congress Leader Criticizes Assam Government's Cash Assistance Schemes Ahead of Elections

Congress's Allegations Against Assam Government

Guwahati, Jan 2: Senior Congress figure Ripun Bora has launched a fierce critique of the Assam government, accusing it of trying to 'buy votes' through financial aid programs for women as elections approach.

Bora has specifically targeted the ruling party, claiming that state resources are being misused in the lead-up to the elections.

He stated, 'Having power and funds does not justify the reckless spending of public money before elections,' in reference to the recent announcements of cash assistance for women.

Criticizing the one-time financial aid schemes, Bora argued that these initiatives do not equate to true empowerment.

'Empowerment cannot be achieved with Rs 8,000 or Rs 1,250. This is merely an attempt to purchase votes, as these funds are being distributed right before the elections,' he asserted.

Bora further remarked, 'Offering Rs 1,000 or Rs 2,000 holds little significance today. It's akin to soothing a child with a piece of chocolate. Such insignificant amounts do not assist a graduate or postgraduate woman in building a future.'

He accused the Chief Minister of misusing government resources by announcing cash transfers of Rs 8,000 to women, stating, 'Distributing money to women in this manner before elections is a blatant attempt to buy votes.'

Outlining an alternative vision for the Congress party, Bora emphasized that if they come to power, the focus would shift to long-term, sustainable solutions rather than temporary financial relief.

'When Congress takes charge, we will not perpetuate schemes that provide fleeting benefits. Instead, we will implement policies that genuinely empower women over the long term,' he stated.

Bora also mentioned that existing programs like Orunodoi and Mahila Udyamita might be phased out under a Congress-led government.

He explained that the party aims to replace such initiatives with programs that create stable income opportunities and employment for women, rather than offering one-time cash payments.

Bora also discussed the Congress party's stance on alliance politics and seat-sharing for the 126-member Assembly.

While speaking to reporters, he noted that if an alliance is formed, Congress would need to allocate seats to its partners.

'In the event of an alliance, seats will certainly need to be shared. Out of the 126 Assembly constituencies, some have already been opened for discussion, which is promising. Ongoing talks will allow potential allies to express their seat preferences, after which Congress will evaluate which seats it can contest and which can be relinquished. A final decision will be made based on mutual agreement,' he explained.

Bora described it as a 'correct and strategic decision' for Congress to aim for control over approximately 100 of the 126 seats, adding that only constituencies with closely contested prospects would be considered for allies.

He indicated that seats with clear chances of victory or defeat could be negotiated with alliance partners.