Rahul Gandhi Presents Five Welfare Promises for Kerala, Critiques CPI-M and BJP
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Thiruvananthapuram, March 7 (NationPress) Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, presented five key welfare "guarantees" for Kerala on Saturday, pledging enhanced social support and job assistance if the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) regains power in the state.
During the concluding event of the statewide yatra led by V.D. Satheesan, the Leader of the Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, Gandhi stated that these proposed guarantees are designed to ensure economic stability for everyday families and tackle youth unemployment.
The guarantees feature free bus travel for women on services run by the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation, a monthly aid of Rs 1,000 for college-going girls, and an increase in welfare pensions to Rs 3,000 each month.
Additionally, he introduced a comprehensive health insurance program that will cover up to Rs 25 lakh for each household, named in honor of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.
Another significant initiative includes a Rs 5 lakh loan scheme aimed at helping youth establish their businesses, along with the establishment of a dedicated ministry for senior citizens.
Gandhi emphasized that a UDF administration would focus on generating jobs by fostering small and medium enterprises and creating an environment conducive for young Keralites working overseas to return home.
In a political critique of the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) government led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Gandhi asserted that the Left and the Bharatiya Janata Party are collaborating under the surface in Kerala.
He also raised concerns about why central investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation have acted against opposition figures, yet not against the Kerala Chief Minister despite the allegations.
Expressing his deep connection with the state, Gandhi remarked that Kerala has always supported him during challenging times. “In my darkest hours, Kerala was not just a friend but also my shield. I am committed to serving Kerala and all of you. I will always stand as a soldier for the people of Kerala,” he stated.
Calling for solidarity within the UDF, he urged alliance leaders to unite, emphasizing that the people of Kerala expect the opposition to work collaboratively to foster political transformation in the state.
“All UDF leaders should unite and work together,” Gandhi concluded.