As Maharashtra gears up for assembly elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi took a sharp jab at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “ek hain to safe hain” remark during a press conference on Monday. Gandhi theatrically brought out a safe to highlight his criticism, accusing the BJP and its allies of prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare.
Framing the elections as a clash between common people’s aspirations and the power of billionaires, Gandhi specifically targeted industrialist Gautam Adani. He alleged plans to direct ₹1 lakh crore toward corporate interests, including Mumbai’s land redevelopment projects, which he said would harm farmers, workers, and the unemployed.
“This election is about ideologies—between 1-2 billionaires and the poor. Billionaires want Mumbai’s land in their hands, but we believe in empowering Maharashtra’s farmers, workers, and unemployed youth,” Gandhi stated.
Key Congress Promises:
1. Support for Women:
– ₹3,000 monthly financial aid.
– Free bus rides.
2. Farmer Relief:
– Loan waivers of up to ₹3 lakh.
– Guaranteed ₹7,000 per quintal for soybeans and stable onion prices.
3. Employment Measures:
– ₹4,000 monthly allowance for unemployed individuals.
– Filling 2.5 lakh vacant government posts.
4. Healthcare and Social Welfare:
– Up to ₹25 lakh medical insurance for underprivileged families.
5. Caste Census and Reservation:
– Commitment to conducting a caste census in Maharashtra.
– Promised removal of the 50% reservation cap.
Gandhi also criticized redevelopment plans for Dharavi, Mumbai’s largest slum, accusing Adani of altering Mumbai’s character to serve corporate agendas. He presented posters linking Modi and Adani to the “safe” narrative, with slogans like “Dharavi ka bhavishya safe nahi.”
The Congress leader was joined by senior party figures Pawan Khera and KC Venugopal during the address.
With campaigning intensifying for the 288 assembly seats, both the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) are vying to sway voters ahead of the November 20 polls. Counting is set for November 23.