Women in West Bengal expressed appreciation for the Bharatiya Janata Party’s pledge to provide them with a monthly assistance of Rs 3,000 ahead of the upcoming two-phased Assembly polls. Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the “Sankalp Patra” (election manifesto) for the April 23 and 29 Assembly elections in the state, announcing the financial aid to enhance women’s financial independence.
Local resident Tukku Sarkar highlighted the need for employment and empowerment over mere allowances, criticizing the Trinamool Congress for unfulfilled promises. Vijayata, a financially independent woman, rejected political parties’ monetary assistance schemes, emphasizing self-reliance and disinterest in charity money. Another resident, Chahad Parveen, pointed out the disparity between promises and actions, expressing dissatisfaction with the current state schemes.
The BJP’s manifesto not only includes the monthly cash transfer but also guarantees 100% free transport for women and investigations into crimes against women by a special committee of retired judges. Priorities outlined in the manifesto encompass zero tolerance for infiltration, a transparent state recruitment system, economic progress, and women’s empowerment. Union Home Minister Shah emphasized the importance of a corruption-free recruitment mechanism and permanent jobs over contractual positions in West Bengal.
The BJP’s commitments extend to providing financial support for youths preparing for competitive exams and offering a five-year age relaxation to those deprived of jobs due to corruption, aiming to address unemployment issues in the state.
