The Congress party has launched its election manifesto for the forthcoming West Bengal assembly elections, outlining a series of commitments aimed at various sections of society. The initiative was led by Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge during a press conference held in Kolkata.

Among the primary pledges, the party promises to offer monthly financial support of Rs 2000 to women and farmers, enhancing their economic security. Additionally, Kharge emphasised the significance of free education up to the post-graduate level as a means to empower women and promote equitable access to education.

Furthermore, the manifesto includes plans for establishing fast-track courts specifically focusing on women’s safety and wellbeing. This move aims to expedite legal proceedings and ensure better protection for vulnerable groups.

Health and Welfare Initiatives

An essential component of the Congress manifesto is the introduction of a fully state-funded health insurance scheme. This initiative will provide coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh for every citizen, ensuring that individuals can access affordable healthcare services. Kharge stated that such provisions are crucial for enhancing public health and welfare across the state.

In addition to health insurance, the manifesto promises annual financial assistance of Rs 15,000 to farmers, aimed at improving their livelihood and financial stability. Kharge also highlighted the party’s commitment to ensuring free electricity and establishing a robust procurement system to augment farmers’ income and security.

The unfolding campaign highlights the Congress party’s efforts to connect with various demographic groups, reflecting an understanding of pressing needs within the community. This strategic focus forms part of the broader electoral discourse leading up to the assembly polls.

Comparison with Competitors

In her announcements, Banerjee revealed the ‘Duare Chikitsa’ scheme, which promises doorstep medical services via camps set up in each locality. This initiative underscores the TMC’s focus on enhancing healthcare accessibility for citizens.

The TMC’s manifesto further outlines improvements in governance, including the creation of seven to eight new districts and blocks, which are intended to streamline administrative processes and address local needs more effectively.

As the electoral landscape heats up, West Bengal is poised for polling to take place in two phases, on April 23 and April 29. The counting of votes is scheduled for May 4. The upcoming elections are expected to witness intense competition, especially following the last assembly election held in 2021, during which the TMC secured 213 seats amidst a challenging contest against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won 77 seats. In contrast, both Congress and the Left Front did not secure any seats in that election.

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