In the run-up to the upcoming assembly elections in Puducherry, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday made a series of sweeping promises, including granting full statehood to the Union Territory if his party comes to power.
Addressing a public gathering in Lawspet, Gandhi—who currently serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha—asserted that Puducherry is not being governed by its own people. He alleged that the administration is effectively controlled from New Delhi under the leadership of Narendra Modi. According to Gandhi, this external control has undermined local governance and sidelined regional leadership.
He further accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of operating the Union Territory through “remote control,” claiming that decisions affecting Puducherry are dictated by the Centre rather than elected representatives on the ground.
As part of the Congress party’s electoral pitch, Gandhi pledged to conduct long-pending local body elections within six months of assuming power. He also announced a comprehensive welfare package aimed at addressing unemployment and economic distress.
Key promises include:
Gandhi, a Member of Parliament from Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh, emphasized that these measures are intended to revive economic activity and improve the quality of life in the Union Territory.
In his speech, Gandhi painted a grim picture of Puducherry’s economic landscape, alleging a decline in key sectors such as industry and textiles. He claimed that nearly 100 factories have shut down, leading to job losses and reduced economic output.
He also made serious allegations regarding corruption and illegal activities, including the operation of a fake drug manufacturing racket in the region. Gandhi asserted that despite widespread awareness, no concrete action has been taken against those involved.
Further accusing the administration of systemic corruption, he alleged that a “30 per cent commission” is being extracted from public contracts, including infrastructure projects like roads, drainage systems, and smart city initiatives. He also raised concerns over alleged encroachments on temple lands, claiming that even religious assets are not being spared.
Elections to the 30-member Puducherry Legislative Assembly are scheduled to be held in a single phase on April 9, with vote counting set for May 4. The process will be overseen by the Election Commission of India.
As campaigning intensifies, Gandhi’s promises and allegations are likely to shape the political discourse in the Union Territory, setting the stage for a closely watched electoral contest.
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