Ranchi, November 9 – Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has announced a series of promises aimed at empowering women and marginalized communities in Jharkhand, ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.
Speaking at a rally in Baghamara, he pledged a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500 for women, branding it as a “khata-khat” (instant) money transfer. Gandhi also emphasized the INDIA bloc’s commitment to restoring tribal pride and lifting the 50% cap on caste-based reservations.
Gandhi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for neglecting the needs of tribal communities and favoring industrialists over farmers and workers. He highlighted the pressing issues of joblessness and inflation, blaming the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system for disproportionately impacting low-income families by taxing rich and poor alike.
The Congress leader promised a range of welfare schemes for Jharkhand, including an increased Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy, 200 units of free electricity, and affordable cooking gas cylinders priced at Rs 450. He also pledged to provide 10 lakh jobs, establish degree colleges in every block, and set up a 500-acre industrial park in each district.
Gandhi reiterated the INDIA bloc's intention to conduct a caste census, viewing it as essential for achieving social justice and fair representation for marginalized communities in government decision-making. “Only caste census can usher in revolutionary politics,” he stated, underscoring the need for inclusive governance.
With Jharkhand's voting set for November 12 and 20, Gandhi expressed confidence that the INDIA bloc would emerge victorious in both state elections, promising to work towards the economic prosperity of marginalized communities.
Results for the Jharkhand elections will be declared on November 23.
