Days before the Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress party unveiled its election manifesto, making several promises aimed at appealing to key voter groups if it returns to power. The manifesto was launched by Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav, with communications in-charge Jairam Ramesh by his side.
Key Promises:
- Caste Census: The Congress promised to conduct a caste census in Delhi if it is voted to power.
- Ministry for Purvanchalis: The party proposed the creation of a dedicated ministry for Purvanchali residents of Delhi.
- Financial Assistance for Women: A monthly grant of Rs 2,500 to women in Delhi was promised, along with free electricity for up to 300 units and LPG cylinders priced at Rs 500.
- Health and Ration Benefits: Congress pledged free health insurance worth up to Rs 25 lakh and free ration kits for the city’s residents.
- Youth Unemployment Support: The manifesto included a proposal to offer Rs 8,500 per month to educated, unemployed youth for one year.
- Indira Canteens: Congress promised to launch 100 Indira canteens across Delhi that would provide meals at a nominal price of Rs 5.
Ramesh, during the manifesto launch, criticized both the BJP-led central government and the AAP-led Delhi government for their failure to address the city’s pollution crisis.
AAP’s Stand on Alliances
Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convenor and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal made it clear that the AAP will contest the elections independently. He dismissed any possibility of an alliance with Congress, reiterating on X (formerly Twitter), “Aam Aadmi Party will be fighting this election on its own strength in Delhi. There is no possibility of any alliance with Congress.”
The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be announced on February 8.
