Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge Unveils Ambitious Puducherry Pledges
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, addressing a significant public gathering organized by the Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee on Saturday, laid out a comprehensive vision for the Union territory. He declared that if the INDIA bloc secures victory and forms the government, it will implement transformative policies including monthly free groceries valued at ₹2,500 for residents and the long-awaited grant of full statehood to Puducherry.
Key Promises for Development and Welfare
Kharge emphasized that the conferral of statehood would be prioritized once Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi assumes the role of Prime Minister. This move, he asserted, would decisively end the persistent interference of the Lieutenant Governor in the affairs of the democratically elected government, thereby restoring autonomy and local governance.
Beyond statehood, the Congress party has committed to an extensive educational overhaul. The plan includes providing completely free education spanning from primary school all the way through to advanced research levels. Additionally, to support higher education students, a monthly scholarship of ₹2,000 will be extended to those enrolled in both government and private colleges across Puducherry.
In a bid to alleviate financial burdens on families, Kharge announced a novel subsidy initiative for gold used in thali or mangalsutra, directly addressing the soaring costs of the precious metal. This measure is designed to offer tangible relief amidst widespread economic pressures.
Scathing Critique of the NDA Government
Kharge launched a fierce attack on the current NDA regime, branding it a "30% commission government" and alleging that systemic corruption has effectively paralyzed all meaningful developmental progress in the region. He accused the NDA of illicitly appropriating temple lands and public assets worth crores of rupees, further claiming that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s proclaimed "zero tolerance" for corruption is merely a facade.
He criticized the government for privatizing major infrastructure projects such as ports and airports while neglecting basic public services. Kharge pointedly highlighted the administration’s focus on commercial ventures, noting the opening of over 450 restaurants and bars within five years, juxtaposed against its failure to ensure access to clean drinking water for the populace.
"Does the NDA intend to transform Puducherry into an economy driven solely by liquor?" Kharge questioned, referencing plans for six new liquor factories despite the ongoing drinking water crisis. He also held the "double-engine government" responsible for the escalating drug menace and the deterioration of law and order in the territory.
Contrasting Legacies and Election Stakes
Reflecting on Puducherry’s development trajectory, Kharge reminded citizens that foundational infrastructure, including major healthcare institutions like Jipmer and the Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, were established under previous Congress administrations. He accused the BJP of merely "pasting stickers" on existing Congress-led schemes and falsely presenting them as new initiatives.
Concluding his address, Kharge framed the upcoming election as a critical choice between neglect and responsibility, and between what he termed a "puppet government" and a robust Congress administration. He passionately urged voters to reject what he described as a corrupt regime and opt for a future marked by accountability, development, and genuine welfare for all residents of Puducherry.
