30-Sep-2024, 02:51 PM
Ahead of the October 5 assembly elections in Haryana, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has pledged to reinstate the Old Pension Scheme as part of a broader manifesto aimed at addressing the concerns of the electorate. The announcement comes as the Congress party seeks to regain its footing in a state where it has faced significant challenges against the ruling BJP.
Key Promises in the Manifesto
The Congress manifesto outlines several ambitious promises to appeal to voters, with the Old Pension Scheme being a central element. This scheme aims to provide financial security for retired government employees, ensuring they receive a stable pension based on their last drawn salary. The reinstatement of this scheme is seen as a crucial step in restoring trust among government employees who felt disadvantaged under the current pension system.
In addition to the Old Pension Scheme, the manifesto includes a range of other guarantees aimed at improving social welfare and economic conditions in Haryana. These include:
300 units of free electricity for households.
A monthly pension of ₹6,000 for senior citizens, widows, and disabled individuals.
Legal guarantees for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers.
A commitment to fill 2 lakh vacant government jobs.
Initiatives aimed at making Haryana drug-free and providing free medical treatment up to ₹25 lakh.
Political Context
Rahul Gandhi emphasized that the Congress party is committed to ending what he termed a “decade of pain” caused by BJP governance in Haryana. He accused the ruling party of neglecting the needs of the people, leading to rising unemployment and inflation. His statements reflect a broader strategy to connect with voters by highlighting issues that resonate with their daily lives.
The Congress party’s approach is particularly significant given that Haryana has been a stronghold for the BJP in recent years. By promising to restore popular schemes like the Old Pension Scheme, Congress aims to differentiate itself from its rivals and regain support among key demographics, including government employees and farmers.
Conclusion
As Haryana approaches its assembly elections, Rahul Gandhi’s pledge to reinstate the Old Pension Scheme is part of a comprehensive strategy designed to address voter concerns and present a viable alternative to the current government. With polling just days away, how effectively these promises resonate with the electorate will be crucial in determining the outcome of this highly contested election. The Congress party’s focus on social welfare and economic stability could play a pivotal role in shaping voter sentiment as they head to the polls.
