Congress leader Rahul Gandhi renewed his promise of providing Rs 2,500 monthly financial assistance to women, reaffirming his commitment to “khata-khat” (instant) transfer, during an election rally in Baghamara on Saturday. Gandhi also vowed that a future INDIA bloc government in Jharkhand would restore the dignity of tribals and remove the 50 per cent cap on caste-based reservation.
Criticizing BJP’s Neglect of Tribals and the Poor
In his address, Gandhi sharply criticized the BJP government for neglecting the tribals and marginalized communities of Jharkhand. He accused the BJP of favoring businessmen while ignoring the needs of farmers, workers, and laborers, especially when it came to loan waivers. “The BJP works only for the rich and powerful,” he stated, emphasizing that the government’s policies have failed to support the common man.
GST, Joblessness, and Inflation: Gandhi’s Key Concerns
Gandhi highlighted two key issues affecting youth and women: joblessness and inflation. He further criticized the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system, calling it a “mechanism for fleecing the poor.” According to Gandhi, the GST system unfairly taxes both the poor and the rich at the same rate, adding to the economic burden on the working-class population.
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INDIA Bloc as Champion of the Marginalized
Reiterating the INDIA bloc’s commitment to social justice, Gandhi argued that the alliance is the true representative of the poor and marginalized sections of society. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi doesn’t care for the poor. He never visits the homes of Dalits, farmers, or OBCs; he only hobnobs with business tycoons,” Gandhi said, emphasizing that the INDIA bloc would prioritize the welfare of all communities, particularly tribals.
Promises for Tribals and Caste Census
Gandhi also pledged to restore the “Jal, Jungle, Jamin” (water, forest, land) rights of tribals, accusing the BJP of denying them access to essential natural resources. He assured the people of Jharkhand that the INDIA bloc government would implement a caste census and remove the 50 per cent cap on caste-based reservation. “The caste census is the key to social justice and fair participation in the country’s decision-making process,” Gandhi declared, calling it a “revolutionary” move for inclusive politics.
Addressing Representation in Decision-Making
Gandhi pointed out the lack of representation from marginalized communities in important decision-making roles, particularly in the creation of the national Budget. He noted that out of 90 officials responsible for drafting the Budget, only one tribal, three Dalit, and three OBC officials were involved. “The communities that make up 90 per cent of the population only have a say in just over 6 per cent of the Budget decisions,” he said.
Promises for Women, Youth, and Farmers
Looking ahead to the upcoming Assembly elections, Gandhi announced a series of proposals aimed at improving the lives of Jharkhand’s people. These included Rs 2,500 in monthly financial assistance for women, a hike in Minimum Support Price (MSP) for paddy from Rs 2,400 to Rs 3,200 per quintal, and 200 units of free electricity for households.
The Congress leader also promised to provide cooking gas cylinders at a reduced price of Rs 450 each and a monthly ration of seven kilograms per person. Addressing youth unemployment, Gandhi committed to creating 10 lakh jobs, opening degree colleges in every block, and professional colleges in each district of Jharkhand. Additionally, he announced plans to establish a 500-acre industrial park to boost the state’s economy.
Commitment to Marginalized Communities
“We are determined to uplift marginalized people by providing them as much financial support as the BJP gives to businessmen,” Gandhi asserted, emphasizing his party’s commitment to equitable development.
Confidence in INDIA Bloc’s Victory
With confidence in the INDIA bloc’s upcoming victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Gandhi expressed optimism about restoring the prosperity of the poor, including workers, farmers, laborers, and small shopkeepers. He promised that the next government would prioritize the welfare of the common people over the interests of corporate entities.
Upcoming Jharkhand Elections
The elections for Jharkhand’s 81-member Assembly will take place in two phases on November 12 and November 20, with results set to be declared on November 23. Gandhi’s rally underscored the high stakes for both the INDIA bloc and the BJP as they prepare for the critical state elections.
