Congress reacts to BJP's Lok Sabha election manifesto
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)'s Lok Sabha election manifesto on Sunday. Specifically, he targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing disappointment in his leadership. Kharge stated that Modi "could not do anything for the poor in the last 10 years." He also highlighted unfulfilled promises such as doubling farmers' income and raising the Minimum Support Price (MSP).
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Kharge's remarks came hours after the BJP released its manifesto, which promised women empowerment, upliftment of youth, One Nation, One Election, and Uniform Civil Code, among others. In the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the BJP has set a target of winning 370 of the 543 seats and 400 for the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Challenging the NDA is the Congress-led Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), a multi-party political alliance formed to challenge the ruling government in the upcoming elections.
Kharge highlights farmers' protests and economic issues
In his barrage, Kharge also underscored the large-scale protests held by farmers earlier this year, demanding a new law that would guarantee minimum crop prices. He also drew attention to the rising inflation and unemployment rates in the country. Criticizing Modi's lack of concern over these issues, Kharge stated, "The youth is looking for jobs. Inflation is rising...He is not worried about these issues." He further accused Modi of failing to implement beneficial policies during his tenure.
BJP unveils election manifesto amidst criticism
The BJP released its manifesto 'Sankalp Patra' in the presence of PM Modi on Sunday. The manifesto focuses on GYAN, which are schemes for the 'Gareeb' (poor), 'Yuva' (youth), 'Annadaata' (farmers), and 'Nari' (women). The poll promises include continuing the free ration scheme for the next five years and bringing the transgender community under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The party has also promised to increase the loan limit under the MUDRA Yojana from ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh.
Key promises in BJP poll manifesto
The 'Modi ki Guarantee' manifesto also promises to increase the number of Lakhpati Didis to three crore, up from the current one crore. Moreover, specially abled people will be given priority in the PM Housing Scheme, with additional efforts taken to ensure they receive accommodation that meets their specific needs. The BJP also promised the implementation of strict laws to stop misconduct in recruitment examinations in the country.