With just days left for the Delhi Assembly elections, the Congress party has released its manifesto, focusing on major welfare promises, including a caste census and the establishment of a dedicated ministry for Purvanchalis. The manifesto, unveiled by Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav in the presence of senior leaders Jairam Ramesh and Pawan Khera, pledges several economic relief measures. These include a monthly grant of ₹2,500 for women, free electricity up to 300 units, and LPG cylinders priced at ₹500. Additionally, Congress has proposed free health insurance coverage of up to ₹25 lakh, free ration kits, and ₹8,500 per month as financial assistance for educated unemployed youth for one year. The party has also committed to launching 100 Indira Canteens across the city, offering meals at just ₹5.
Congress took a strong stance against the BJP-led central government and the AAP-led Delhi government, particularly on the issue of pollution. Senior leader Jairam Ramesh criticized both administrations, arguing that their failure to address Delhi’s worsening air quality has led to severe environmental and health crises. He also emphasized that the proposed welfare programs would help bridge economic inequalities and improve the quality of life for Delhi residents. While Congress ruled the capital for 15 years before being ousted by AAP in 2013, the party is now aiming for a comeback with a mix of social welfare initiatives and aggressive criticism of its political rivals. The elections are scheduled for February 5, with results to be declared on February 8.
Meanwhile, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief and former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has firmly ruled out any possibility of an alliance with Congress for the upcoming elections. In a post on X, Kejriwal stated that AAP will contest the elections independently, putting an end to speculation about a coalition. With both AAP and Congress vying for votes against the BJP, the battle for Delhi is expected to be intense. As the election date approaches, political campaigns are in full swing, with all major parties rolling out their strategies to win over voters in the national capital.
