All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi, addressing an election rally in the grounds of sub tehsil Jalbandha in Khairagarh, announced a series of promises and subsidies, if the Congress is voted to power again in Chhattisgarh. Priyanka Gandhi announced transfer of Rs 500 as a subsidy into the bank account of every woman for every gas cylinder refill. She said that the Congress party pledges free electricity up to 200 units per month. The Congress General Secretary asserted that loans taken by women self-help groups under the ‘Saksham’ scheme will be waived off. The Congress General Secretary said that plans are underway to establish 700 new rural industrial parks in the coming years, potentially boosting local economies. All government schools in the state will be upgraded to English and Hindi medium schools, enhancing educational quality. Priyanka Gandhi announced that the Chief Minister’s Special Health Assistance Scheme will offer free treatment for residents of Chhattisgarh in road accidents and other accidental incidents. Outstanding motor vehicle tax, penalties and interest amounting to Rs 726 crore till the year 2018 for over 6,600 vehicle owners in the transport business will be waived off. The Congress also pledged to purchase ‘Tivara’ at a support price from farmers in State. Addressing the election rally, Priyanka highlighted the historical significance of Khairagarh and its connection with the Gandhi family.

 

She emphasised the deep-rooted ties between her family and the region, shedding light on the association between Rani Padmavati and Indira Gandhi. Rani Padmavati, who had a close friendship with Indira Gandhi since their childhood days when they both studied in Allahabad, was encouraged by Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru to enter politics due to her interest in social service. This led to Padmavati’s political career, inspired by leaders like Pandit Ravi Shankar Shukla and Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru. Priyanka Gandhi shared an interesting anecdote related to Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya, revealing that Queen Padmavati named her daughter Indira after Indira Gandhi. The foundation of Indira Kala Sangeet Vishwavidyalaya was laid in the same name and the university was inaugurated by Indira Gandhi herself. Addressing the gathering, Priyanka Gandhi praised the Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel for fulfilling his promise to make Khairagarh a district within three days of the by-election results. She emphasised the Congress’s commitment to serving the interests of the poor and criticised the BJP for allegedly prioritising its wealthy associates over the common people. Baghel government was commended for understanding the challenges faced by farmers and offering substantial support prices and bonuses in the face of central government opposition. Priyanka Gandhi urged the people to recognise the power of their vote and the Congress’s dedication to bringing positive changes to the lives of the people.

 

She also highlighted the security concerns faced by women in neighboring Madhya Pradesh and contrasted it with the positive developments in Chhattisgarh. Priyanka Gandhi acknowledged the positive impact of Chhattisgarh’s culture, with the state government providing Minimum Support Price (MSP) for forest produce, thereby halting migration and increasing employment opportunities. Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, who also spoke at the rally, accused the previous BJP government of exploiting the state during their 15- year rule and assured the gathering that farmers’ loans would be waived off if the Congress returns to power. The rally was also attended by Home Minister Tamradhwaj Sahu, School Education Minister Ravindra Choubey, Speaker of Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly Dr Charan Das Mahant, and Members of Parliament.