Congress unveils Delhi Assembly election manifesto, promises to conduct caste census

The Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) on Wednesday launched its manifesto, Nyay Patra, for the upcoming Delhi Assembly election, promising to address key issues facing the capital. The manifesto was unveiled by AICC general secretary Jairam Ramesh and party state president Devender Yadav.

The key pledges include the abolition of contract-based jobs, 33 per cent reservation for women in government positions, and a financial aid scheme for widows’ daughters. The party also promised to establish 100 Indira canteens across the city, with a meal costing just Rs 5.

In a bid to secure the support of Delhiites, the Congress vowed to prioritise welfare and infrastructure. Among the key proposals are the regularisation of all jobs, an increase in the pension for senior citizens and widows from Rs 2,500 to Rs 5,000, and a promise to build 24-hour dispensaries in every ward. The Congress is also committed to conducting a caste census and setting up a new ministry dedicated to the Purvanchal community.

The manifesto includes 22 distinct promises, many of which were partially released before, such as Free Bijli Yojana, Pyaari Didi Yojana, Jeevan Raksha Yojana, Mehangayi Mukti Yojana, and Yuva Udaan Yojana. These promises aim to address issues ranging from electricity bills to support for youth.

Ramesh, during the unveiling, emphasised the importance of guarantees for the people of Delhi. He criticised both the BJP and AAP governments for their failure to address pollution and other key concerns in the city, highlighting that “ease of breathing” should be a priority, not just “ease of doing business.” He also pointed out the government’s inaction on chemical contamination and pollution, both of which have reached alarming levels in Delhi.

The additional pledges in the manifesto include 7 public libraries for students and renewed sewage infrastructure, Bhaagidari Yojana for NGOs at the local level, ownership rights to residents of unauthorised colonies, 24-hour clean drinking water, Rs 5,000 monthly pension for senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities, revival of 15,000 civil defence volunteer positions, and building 35,000 flats under Rajiv Ratan Awas Yojana for JJ cluster residents.

The party also promised to support the transgender community by offering scholarships, hostels, and accessible washrooms in public spaces. In terms of transportation, the party pledged to increase the number of electric and hydrogen buses operated by Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) and build a monorail connecting key areas, including Camp and Burari Village.