Kolkata, April 10 (NationPress) Women in West Bengal expressed their support on Friday for the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) announcement of a monthly financial aid of Rs 3,000 as part of their election manifesto, just ahead of the upcoming two-phase Assembly elections scheduled for later this month.

On Friday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the "Sankalp Patra" (election manifesto) for the Assembly polls set for April 23 and 29.

During the event, Shah declared that this financial support aims to enhance the financial independence of women in the state.

Local resident Tukku Sarkar shared with IANS, "The Trinamool Congress made grand promises during their campaigns but did not deliver on jobs or education. What people truly need is employment and empowerment, not merely financial handouts. We also need improved healthcare facilities in West Bengal."

Another resident, Vijayata, who is financially independent, expressed her reservations about such monetary assistance programs initiated by political parties.

She stated, "I do not take part in the state's Rs 1,500 Lakshmir Bhandar scheme and refuse to accept any party's assistance. I pride myself on being self-sufficient and have no desire for charity. My stance is strictly apolitical."

Chahad Parveen, another local, emphasized the gap between promises and reality, saying, "What’s promised does not reflect what’s delivered. I am dissatisfied with the current state scheme under the Trinamool Congress-led government."

In addition to the cash transfer initiative, the BJP's manifesto also pledges to offer 100% free transport for women.

Moreover, the manifesto includes a commitment to launch investigations into crimes against women through a special committee of retired judges.

Notably, the manifesto prioritizes a zero-tolerance approach towards infiltration, establishing a transparent and corruption-free recruitment process for state jobs, and advancing economic progress alongside women’s empowerment.

Shah also highlighted the intent to implement a transparent recruitment mechanism, filling vacant state government positions based on merit to eliminate cash-for-jobs risks.

He asserted that the BJP's focus will be on providing permanent jobs rather than temporary positions in West Bengal if they come to power.

"Youths will receive Rs 15,000 to prepare for competitive exams. Additionally, individuals who faced job denial due to corruption will be granted a relaxation of up to five years in age limit," he added.