New Delhi: Kicking off its election campaign in Delhi, the Congress released its manifesto for Delhi Assembly elections on Friday, promising reforms in the power and water sectors.
The Congress has promised to provide electricity at the rate of Rs 1.50 per unit. Women’s security is another key promise made by the party.
Congress’ Election Campaign Committee chief and party’s candidate Ajay Maken said the manifesto answers not just ‘what’ but also ‘how’. “We are only making promises that can be fulfilled. Old age pension will be hiked to Rs 2000,” he said.
The party’s vision document promises to weave in power and water reforms to counter the assurances of BJP and AAP on power tariff. The document is also likely to put on priority the concerns of the poor and the marginalised.
The scheduled caste vote, including a significant Valmiki population, had shifted to AAP in 2013 leaving Congress with just one MLA from Sultanpur Majra among the reserved constituencies. While AAP won nine reserved seats, BJP bagged two.
Commenting on the Congress’ manifesto, Delhi BJP in charge Prabhat Jha said the Congress can say they will give electricity for free but their manifesto means nothing. “They are making fake promises because they know they won’t get voted to power. Our stance on electricity will become clear soon,” he said.
Jha said the BJP is not late in releasing its manifesto. “We are responsible and have to think seriously before releasing the manifesto,” he added.
He informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to address four rallies. All the Central ministers and MPs will address rallies and roadshows in all the 70 constituencies. “We have asked Kiran Bedi also to campaign in all constituencies,” Jha said.