The Congress has released its manifesto ahead of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. Notably, the manifesto does not address Article 370, which granted special status to Kashmir. In contrast, the National Conference, an ally of the Congress in Jammu and Kashmir, has promised to restore the special status in its manifesto. Previously, Congress leaders remained silent on issues related to Kashmir’s special status during the election campaign. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi did not make any statements regarding this in their campaign speeches.
The Congress manifesto, released in Srinagar on Monday just days before the first phase of voting, emphasizes increased focus on employment and education. Congress party spokesperson Pawan Rekhi stated, “By voting for Congress and its allies, the people of Jammu and Kashmir will regain their rights.”
The manifesto includes promises such as priority in job and land allocations, the creation of one lakh government jobs, scholarships for higher education, and a monthly stipend of ₹3,000 for economically disadvantaged women. The first phase of voting in Jammu and Kashmir is scheduled for September 18.
