Delhi Elections: Congress Proposes Dedicated ‘Department for Purvanchalis’

Synopsis
The Delhi Congress aims to attract Purvanchali voters ahead of the February 5 elections by proposing a dedicated department for 35 lakh migrants from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, emphasizing their contributions to the city's development.
Key Takeaways
- Proposal for a Department for Purvanchalis.
- Focus on the needs of 35 lakh migrants.
- Purvanchali voters could impact 30-45 seats.
- Congress promises Rs 10 lakh savings for families over five years.
- Support for a caste census.
New Delhi, Jan 24 (NationPress) The Delhi Congress on Friday aimed to attract Purvanchali voters ahead of the February 5 Assembly elections by proposing to establish a distinct government department that will address the concerns of 35 lakh migrants hailing from eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
During a joint press conference, Congress leaders Supriya Shrinate and Kanhaiya Kumar emphasized the significant contributions of Purvanchalis to the development of Delhi and accused both the AAP and BJP of merely viewing them as a vote bank.
“A separate Department for Purvanchalis will adequately cater to the needs of the 35 lakh individuals from this community residing in Delhi,” stated Shrinate.
Poll analysts predict that Purvanchali voters could sway outcomes in approximately 30-45 seats out of the 70 Assembly segments in Delhi.
Kanhaiya Kumar asserted the Congress’s dedication to combating the unfair treatment of any group. “Delhi belongs to everyone, yet Purvanchalis often face discrimination despite their essential contributions to the city's growth,” he remarked.
Referring to the party manifesto as a “Congress Coupon,” Kanhaiya Kumar, a former president of the JNU students’ union, claimed that if the Congress comes into power, its promises could help families save Rs 10 lakh over five years.
“A middle-class family can accomplish much with a savings of Rs 10 lakh in five years,” he noted.
Criticizing the AAP government led by Arvind Kejriwal for inadequate development, he urged voters to support the Congress for the city’s comprehensive progress.
Kanhaiya Kumar also accused the AAP and BJP of colluding during the elections. “When Arvind Kejriwal is contesting without aligning with us, it’s his responsibility to clarify whom he is collaborating with,” he remarked, adding that the AAP was formed in opposition to the Congress.
He expressed his support for Rahul Gandhi’s proposal for conducting a caste census.
AICC member Pranav Jha stated, “The Congress intends to host a Chhath Mahotsav similar to the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. There are plans to designate the banks of the Yamuna as a separate district with its own security measures.”