Kharge releases Congress manifesto with six pledges for Telangana polls

The Congress in Telangana unveiled its manifesto, pledging six guarantees that will be implemented on a time-bound schedule, starting immediately after the oath-taking ceremony in the first cabinet meeting. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, addressing a public meeting after the manifesto release, likened it to the party’s guiding principles, emphasising their commitment to fulfilling promises made to the people.

Kharge criticised Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao for not acknowledging Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s role in the creation of Telangana. The manifesto outlined a detailed roadmap for the state’s development, with immediate guarantees including a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500 for every woman, LPG cylinders priced at Rs 500, and free bus travel for women. Farmers were assured compensation of Rs 15,000 per acre annually, and landless agricultural labourers would receive Rs 12,000 each year. Additionally, farmers would receive a bonus of Rs 500 per quintal on paddy.

Other guarantees included providing 200 units of free electricity under the Grah Jyoti Yojana, Rs 5 lakh cash assistance for homeless individuals to build houses, 250 square yard residential plots for those involved in the movement for a separate Telangana state, a monthly pension of Rs 4,000 for senior citizens, and health insurance cover worth Rs 10 lakhs for everyone in the state. The manifesto also promised the opening of English Medium Schools and the creation of 2 lakh government appointments, with specific dates for notifications and filling vacancies within a year starting from January 2024.

Kharge took a dig at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister KCR, noting a reduction in their criticism of each other. He expressed confidence that despite their collaboration, the Congress was poised to win in Telangana, as the people had already made up their minds. Kharge encouraged voters to honour KCR’s desire for retirement, urging them to give him a “good farewell” for his last election.