• 'Nyay Patra': Congress releases manifesto for upcoming LS polls, focuses on 'five pillars of justice'

    Politics
    'Nyay Patra': Congress releases manifesto for upcoming LS polls, focuses on 'five pillars of justice'
    The manifesto underscores its pivotal role in shaping the political trajectory of the nation...

    Digital Desk: In a highly anticipated move ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress party has released its manifesto, outlining a comprehensive set of promises and commitments aimed at addressing the critical issues confronting the nation. Led by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, the unveiling ceremony held in Delhi witnessed the presence of stalwart leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi, alongside former Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who spearheaded the drafting committee.

    Described as 'Nyay Ka Dastavez' or a 'Document for Justice' by Kharge, the manifesto underscores its pivotal role in shaping the political trajectory of the nation. Rooted in the principles of the 'Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra', it emphasizes the welfare of key demographic segments including youth, farmers, women, and workers, guaranteeing 25 assurances to address their concerns.

    The manifesto is structured around three pillars: 'work', 'wealth', and 'welfare', reflecting the party's holistic approach towards governance and socio-economic development. It asserts the necessity of providing jobs, creating wealth before distribution, and prioritizing the welfare of marginalized sections.

    Some key highlights of the manifesto include:

    Caste Census: The pledge to conduct a nationwide census to identify and enumerate castes and sub-castes, alongside amending the Constitution to raise the quota cap for marginalized groups.

    MSP for Farmers: A promise to implement a minimum support price for cash crop farmers, based on the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission.

    Poverty Alleviation: A commitment to uplift 23 crore people out of poverty over the next decade, with a focus on empowering women through the 'Mahalakshmi' scheme.

    National Security and China: A focus on restoring the status quo on the India-China border and repairing relations with neighboring countries.

    Healthcare: Ensuring universal and free healthcare, with provisions for cost-free diagnosis, surgery, medication, and cashless insurance.

    Youth Empowerment: Proposing relief measures for student educational loans, including the writing off of outstanding loans and unpaid interests.

    LGBTQIA+ Rights: Pledging to recognize civil unions between LGBTQIA+ couples and amend laws to enhance electoral transparency.

    Furthermore, the manifesto outlines a comprehensive Northeastern Development Plan, aiming to address infrastructure, economic, and social challenges in the region. This strategy includes increased funding for infrastructure, empowerment of Autonomous District Councils, and initiatives to advance the Naga peace process.

    With the Lok Sabha elections scheduled to take place in seven phases, commencing on April 19 and concluding with the announcement of results on June 4, the release of the Congress manifesto sets the stage for a spirited electoral contest. 

    As Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the ruling BJP prepare to unveil their manifesto, the political landscape is poised for a dynamic exchange of ideas and visions for India's future. The Congress party's manifesto, with its ambitious agenda and focus on justice and inclusivity, adds a significant dimension to the electoral discourse, presenting voters with a clear choice as they exercise their democratic rights