The Congress criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his recent inauguration of the PM Vishwakarma Yojana, labelling it an “election gimmick.” They also denounced his continued silence on the caste census issue.
The PM Vishwakarma Yojana, a 13,000-crore initiative aimed at aiding traditional artisans and craftsmen, was introduced alongside the inauguration of the initial 5,400-crore phase of the Yashobhoomi at the India International Convention and Expo Centre (IICC) in Dwarka, Delhi. The Prime Minister dedicated this venture to “every labourer, every Vishwakarma of the nation.”
Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary, accentuated the negative impacts of demonetization, the GST, and the abrupt lockdown initiated during the pandemic, branding them as “the biggest destroyers of micro and small enterprises in India.” These enterprises, mainly run by artisans involved in textiles, leather, and other crafts, have faced significant challenges due to these policies, Ramesh added.
He also accused Modi of neglecting the economic struggles of hardworking individuals in Dharavi, Mumbai while favouring business magnate Gautam Adani.
Echoing the frustrations voiced by many during Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra, Ramesh condemned the recent initiative as a delayed response to the widespread dissatisfaction and insisted that the populace “won’t be fooled again.” He called for Modi’s retirement, criticising the Prime Minister’s alleged lack of action on pressing issues, including the much-debated caste census.
