On November 6, 2024, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi began his campaign for the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections-2024, presenting the five primary guarantees of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance at the "Samvidhan Samman Sabha" event in Mumbai. In his address, Gandhi highlighted several ambitious promises focused on welfare for women, youth, farmers, and socially marginalized communities.
Key Guarantees by Maha Vikas Aghadi
The five guarantees shared by Gandhi aim to address economic, social, and educational issues across Maharashtra.
Under Mahalakshmi Yojana, Rahul promised monthly financial aid of Rs 3,000 to all women and free public bus service for women.
Under Yuvakana Shabd, he promised monthly allowance of Rs 4,000 for unemployed youth to provide a financial safety net.
Under Sammanatechi Hami, Rahul has promised implementation of a nationwide caste census to provide a clearer understanding of social inequalities, especially among Dalits, OBCs, and Adivasis and increase in the reservation limit beyond the current 50% cap to offer more opportunities for historically marginalized communities.
The Family Protection Scheme, promises health insurance coverage up to Rs 25 lakh per family and provision of free essential medicines.
Besides, loan waivers for farmers with outstanding amounts up to Rs 3 lakh and an additional Rs 50,000 incentive for farmers who consistently repay their loans have been promised under Agricultural Prosperity Package.
Caste Census and Reservation Limit: A National Focus
Rahul also reiterated the Congress party's stance on the importance of conducting a caste census nationwide. He emphasized that this would shed light on the structural inequalities affecting Dalits, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Adivasis, revealing the extent of social injustices. "Everyone will understand their share of power and the role they play in our society," Gandhi stated, adding that the Congress intends to work towards removing the current 50% reservation cap to ensure greater representation for marginalized communities.
'BJP “stole” the government from the people'
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gandhi alleged that the BJP “stole” the government from the people of Maharashtra, hinting at previous political turbulence in the state.
The Congress party, in alliance with the MVA, has fielded candidates for 103 seats in Maharashtra. The MVA, which includes the Congress, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction), and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction), is aiming to challenge the BJP's hold in the state with these new policy promises focused on social welfare and economic support.
As the campaign intensifies, the five guarantees by MVA have emerged as central pledges for the upcoming election, setting the stage for a competitive political landscape in Maharashtra.
(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)
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