Placing a spotlight on women’s political empowerment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, at a rally in Tiruvalla, reiterated the government’s commitment to the Women’s Reservation Bill. He assured that the bill, proposing 33% reservation for women in legislatures, would materialize by the 2029 Lok Sabha elections. Parliament is set to deliberate on the Bill from April 16 to 18, with PM Modi urging all parties to extend their support constructively.
Addressing concerns regarding delimitation, PM Modi clarified that there would be no reduction in Lok Sabha seats in Kerala or Tamil Nadu. He dismissed rumors aimed at creating voter apprehension. The Prime Minister’s journey from Kochi to Tiruvalla witnessed an overwhelming public response, with crowds forming a human chain along the route, surpassing the expectations of a traditional roadshow.
Emphasizing women’s welfare as a core government priority, PM Modi outlined various initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life. These initiatives include provisions for housing, improved access to drinking water, and a proposed free cancer vaccine program for teenage girls. He expressed confidence that such schemes would gain momentum in Kerala under the governance of a “double-engine” NDA government.
In his address, PM Modi criticized the alternating power dynamics between the LDF and the Congress-led UDF in Kerala. Despite the state’s natural advantages in sectors like tourism and the blue economy, PM Modi highlighted the existing developmental lag. He pointed out infrastructural deficiencies such as poor roads, lack of major bridges, and issues at Kottayam Medical College.
Asserting strong financial support from the Centre to Kerala, PM Modi claimed that allocations under the current government were significantly higher than those under previous Congress-led administrations. He also mentioned substantial financial aid amounting to Rs 13,000 crore for farmers, including those in the rubber industry. PM Modi drew parallels with the rapid development witnessed in Christian-majority northeastern states and Goa under NDA rule, expressing optimism that Kerala could follow suit.
Highlighting corruption, communalism, and youth migration as hindrances to the state’s progress, PM Modi urged voters to reject the traditional political fronts. He positioned the NDA as a platform for transformative growth rooted in inclusive policies and women-centric development.
