Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hit out at the Opposition Congress, saying it overlooked the needs of the poor for decades since independence and never understood their pain. Addressing the Vijay Sankalp Shanknaad Rally in Chote Amabal, Narayanpur in Bastar district, which will go to polls on April 19, PM Modi also said that the Congress’ manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections has the Muslim League imprint. During the Congress regime, corruption had become the country’s identity, he said. “Since independence, the Congress overlooked the needs of the poor for decades and never understood their pain,” the PM said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi evoked sentiments of nostalgia and gratitude as he reminisced about his past engagements and organisational efforts alongside Baliram Kashyap. Modi acknowledged the foundational groundwork laid by the party in Bastar, attributing the region’s trust to past efforts. He expressed deep gratitude to the nation for its cooperation in developmental endeavours, emphasising the strides made over the past decade.

 

Modi underscored the BJP Government’s commitment to the welfare of the poor, highlighting initiatives aimed at addressing fundamental challenges faced by marginalised communities. He emphasised the transformative impact of schemes like Ayushman Arogya Mandir and Ayushman Bharat Yojana, symbolising the party’s dedication to accessible healthcare. Furthermore, Modi stressed the importance of addressing the basic needs of the poor, particularly mothers, and reiterated the Government’s commitment to providing essential services and support to vulnerable populations, citing initiatives like Jan Aushadhi Kendra. Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Modi reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to citizen welfare. “People said what will happen to the poor during the COVID-19 pandemic, but I said I will give free vaccine and ration to them,” he said, adding that “due to my government’s efforts, 25 crore people have risen above the poverty line.”

 

Addressing the issue of corruption, Modi condemned the exploitation of public resources and emphasised the need for accountability and justice. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding integrity and honesty in governance. Concluding his speech, Modi urged voters to support BJP candidates in the upcoming elections, expressing confidence in the party's vision for a developed nation. He extended wishes for forthcoming festivals and underscored the spirit of resilience and hope in the Indian ethos. At the rally, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai welcomed Prime Minister Modi and highlighted initiatives for Chhattisgarh’s progress. He underscored the BJP's commitment to tribal welfare and paid tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee for his role in the state’s formation. Chief Minister Sai praised Modi's decision to appoint tribal woman Droupadi Murmu as President, citing it as a symbol of inclusivity. Highlighting Modi's affection for Chhattisgarh, Chief Minister Sai recounted the Prime Minister's visits, including the launch of Ayushman Bharat in Jangla. He emphasised initiatives like the Nagarnar steel plant for Bastar's youth employment. Chief Minister Sai reaffirmed the government's commitment to fulfilling promises and urged voters to secure victory in the upcoming elections.