Intensifying the battle for the Union Territory, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led administration during a massive election rally in Lawspet on Monday. Gandhi alleged that the current government does not reflect the aspirations of the local population and is effectively being “run by remote control” from Delhi.
Addressing the crowd just days before the scheduled polling on April 9, Gandhi revisited the long-standing demand for full statehood. He accused the BJP of betraying the people of Puducherry by failing to fulfill its previous promises. “The government here is an imposition. The BJP wants Puducherry to belong to big corporates like Mr. Adani; the strategic Karaikal port has already been handed over,” Gandhi claimed, linking the administration to crony capitalism.
Allegations of Corruption and ‘Liquor Raj’
The Congress leader did not mince words regarding the internal functioning of the UT’s administration, labeling the government a “commission agent.” He alleged that a “30 percent commission” is being pocketed on all government contracts and raised concerns over the declining law and order situation.
“They are stealing from the people and they are stealing from the gods,” Gandhi remarked, referring to the alleged ‘Liquor License Raj’ in the territory. He stated that despite public outcry, the administration remains indifferent to the grievances of the common man, focusing instead on illicit gains through administrative loopholes.
Congress Unveils ‘Welfare Shield’ for 2026
Shifting focus to the Congress alliance’s vision, Gandhi unveiled a series of high-decibel welfare promises aimed at capturing the youth and women’s vote. Key highlights of the manifesto include a ₹20 lakh health insurance cover for every family and a monthly assistance of ₹2,000 for unemployed youth.
To tackle the unemployment crisis, the party promised the creation of 30,000 new jobs across public and private sectors, alongside relaxing the age limit for government job entries to 40 years. For women, the party has pledged free travel in all Puducherry buses. As the campaign enters its final stretch before the May 4 counting day, these populist measures are expected to be the centerpiece of the Congress’s push to reclaim the 30-member Legislative Assembly.