The Congress party has unveiled its manifesto for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, pledging a range of reforms, including reservations for transgender individuals in education and employment.
In a move aimed at empowering women, the party promised Rs 2,500 per month to women from impoverished households under the "Pyari Didi Yojana".
Other key promises in the manifesto included 300 units of free electricity, Rs 500 for a gas cylinder, and a fresh pension scheme for senior citizens, widows, persons with disabilities, transgender individuals, and destitute persons.
The manifesto also emphasised the party’s commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community. It vowed to review state laws and regulations to ensure inclusion and safeguard against discrimination, especially in accessing essential services.
Scholarships for transgender individuals were also announced. “We will ensure the well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community by addressing concerns related to discrimination,” said a party spokesperson.
The Pyari Didi Yojana, inspired by similar initiatives like AAP’s Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana and BJP's Mahila Samridhi Yojana, would ensure financial assistance of Rs 2,500 per month for one woman in each poor household if the Congress assumes power.
Under its Mehangai Mukti Yojana, Congress also promised to provide cooking gas at Rs 500 per cylinder and distribute a free ration kit containing essential items such as rice, sugar, cooking oil, dal, and tea.
Addressing youth unemployment, the party proposed a one-year apprenticeship programme, offering an Rs 8,500 stipend per month for the duration. In addition, a promise was made to introduce a time-bound job calendar for filling vacant government positions.
The manifesto further included a commitment to carry out a Delhi Caste Survey, which will be introduced during the first Cabinet meeting if the party is elected.
The Congress party also promised to raise the income limit for determining the creamy layer to Rs 12 lakh annually.
The manifesto also outlined plans for the welfare of Scheduled Castes, ensuring that 15 per cent of government contracts would be reserved for them.
Moreover, the Congress vowed to implement 15 key recommendations from the UPA’s Sachar Committee report, aimed at empowering minorities.
Lastly, the Congress party expressed its intent to strengthen anti-corruption measures by passing a more robust Lokpal Bill within six months, to prevent a recurrence of the “Liquor Scam.”
The Delhi Assembly elections will take place on February 5, with 70 seats up for grabs.
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