Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Puducherry Government's Legitimacy and Promises Welfare Measures
Rahul Gandhi's Accusations Against Puducherry Government
On Monday, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi claimed that the Puducherry government is imposed from Delhi and does not reflect the will of the local populace. He accused the BJP of failing to grant full statehood to Puducherry and of fostering corruption within the union territory. According to the Election Commission of India, voting in Puducherry is scheduled for April 9, with counting set for May 4. The current term of the 30-member assembly is set to conclude on June 15.
Election Rally Highlights
While addressing an election rally in Lawspet, Rahul Gandhi emphasized that the current government does not represent the views of the people of Puducherry but is rather dictated by Delhi. He pointed out that the issue of full statehood has been a longstanding promise made by the BJP, which remains unfulfilled. He alleged that the BJP intends for Puducherry to remain under the control of Mr. Adani, noting that the strategically important Karaikal has already been sold to him.
Allegations of Corruption and Welfare Proposals
Gandhi accused the administration of rampant corruption, stating that it is common knowledge that a 30% commission is taken on all contracts. He described the government as having become a commission agent, with ongoing issues surrounding liquor licenses that go unaddressed despite public complaints. He claimed that the government is not only stealing from the people but also from divine entities, leading to a deterioration in law and order. Furthermore, Rahul Gandhi announced several welfare initiatives for Puducherry, including a monthly assistance of ₹2,000 for unemployed youth, the creation of 30,000 new jobs, free bus travel for women, an increase in the age limit for government job eligibility, and health insurance of ₹20 lakh for each family.
Future Plans for Puducherry
He elaborated on the plans of the Congress coalition government for Puducherry, promising monthly financial support for unemployed youth, the generation of 30,000 new jobs in both public and private sectors, and free travel for women on local buses. Additionally, he mentioned plans to raise the age limit for government job eligibility to 40 years and to provide health insurance of ₹20 lakh for every family in Puducherry.