NEW DELHI: The INDIA bloc unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Jharkhand assembly elections on Tuesday, pledging a boost in reservations for Scheduled Tribes (STs), Scheduled Castes (SCs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The manifesto promises to enhance the reservation for STs from 26% to 28%, SCs from 10% to 12%, and OBCs from 14% to 27%.
‘7 guarantees’ for social justice and welfare
The election manifesto, branded as the ‘7 guarantees,’ also outlines ambitious welfare measures. Chief among them is the creation of 10 lakh jobs for the youth and the provision of health insurance coverage of up to Rs 15 lakh for economically disadvantaged families.
“INDIA bloc will ensure 10 lakh jobs for youth and Rs 15 lakh health cover for the poor,” announced Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge during the manifesto’s release, alongside Jharkhand chief minister Hemant Soren and RJD leader JP Yadav.
Countering criticism from PM Modi
Kharge took the opportunity to respond to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s criticism of Congress’s guarantees. “Whenever we talk about guarantees, PM Modi criticizes them. However, Congress fulfills its promises, unlike the unfulfilled guarantees of Modi,” he said.
Additional promises: Affordable essentials and increased ration
Further addressing the economic challenges faced by Jharkhand’s residents, the INDIA bloc promised to increase the free monthly ration from 5 kg to 7 kg per person and reduce the price of gas cylinders to Rs 450.
Chief minister Hemant Soren emphasized the bloc’s commitment to these guarantees, stating, “The next government will move forward with these promises.”
Election timeline
The 81-member Jharkhand Assembly elections are scheduled for November 13 and 20, with vote counting set for November 23. The INDIA bloc’s manifesto aims to address social justice, employment, and welfare, potentially influencing the election outcome.