LoP Rahul Gandhi promises full statehood for Puducherry, outlines welfare measures ahead of polls

Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has reaffirmed the Congress party’s commitment to grant full statehood to Puducherry.

Addressing a public meeting at Lawspet, Puducherry, ahead of legislative assembly elections, he announced that the Congress alliance, if voted to power, will provide monthly financial assistance of two thousand rupees to unemployed youth and create 30 thousand new jobs in the public and private sectors.

He also promised to conduct the long-pending local body elections in the union territory within six months of assuming office.

Criticising the NDA led administration, Mr Gandhi alleged that the government in Puducherry is being remote controlled from Delhi and does not reflect the will of the people.

He also claimed that industrial activity in the region has declined, impacting employment. Meanwhile, senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah will arrive in Puducherry this afternoon to campaign for NDA candidates.

He is scheduled to address a public meeting at Thirukkanur Main Road in support of BJP Mannadipet constituency candidate A Namassivayam.

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin is also scheduled to campaign in Puducherry later in the day as part of the election outreach.