Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has called on the electorate of Puducherry to support his party in the impending assembly elections. In a video message shared on social media platform X, he emphasised the importance of local governance, stating, “Vote for a Puducherry run by its own people; your vote is your power.”

He highlighted the necessity for the residents to reclaim their governance from external control, referencing the role of the Lieutenant Governor, whom he described as having excessive authority similar to that of a monarch. Gandhi asserted that the territory should be administered by its local populace.

Assembly Polls Framed as Ideological Battle

Gandhi termed the forthcoming assembly polls as an “ideological battle,” positioning the Congress party against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He accused the BJP of fostering an environment of “violence, hatred and anger,” contrasting this with the Congress’s philosophy of “love, affection and unity.”

The Congress leader called attention to the inadequacy surrounding political representation in Puducherry, arguing that the local population has not received the representation they deserve under current governance. He guaranteed his party’s commitment to advancing statehood for Puducherry.

He further assured voters that the Congress party would initiate panchayat elections promptly, within six months, if elected. Gandhi reiterated that the election is more than a contest; it embodies the fundamental values and principles he believes the region should uphold.

Specific Promises and Policy Proposals Outlined

In his message, Gandhi detailed the key promises outlined in Congress’s election manifesto for Puducherry. Notable among the pledges is the provision of free bus travel for women, intended to empower them within the community. Additionally, he spoke of a robust health insurance scheme for families.

He elaborated that families would have access to a health insurance cover of up to ₹20 lakh, assuring residents of financial protection against medical emergencies. Such initiatives reflect a commitment to improving quality of life for the citizens of Puducherry.

Concluding his address, Gandhi urged the voters to support the Congress party with a substantial majority in the upcoming elections, stating that this would enable them to start implementing policies for the betterment of Puducherry.

Polling Details Ahead of the Elections

Polling in Puducherry is set for April 9, 2026, while the counting of votes will occur on May 4, 2026. The political landscape features the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA), comprising the NR Congress and BJP, and the alliance of Congress and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). Actor Vijay’s Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) is also participating, aiming to create a competitive triangular political contest.

The upcoming election is poised to significantly impact the future political direction of Puducherry, with various parties making their cases to the voters. Gandhi’s initiatives and promises are part of an overarching strategy to establish a foothold for the Congress party in the region.

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