Assembly Elections 2026: Rahul Gandhi promises full statehood to Puducherry; pledges Jobs, Unemployment Allowance

Chennai: Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has reiterated the Congress party's promise to grant full statehood status to Puducherry. Rahul Gandhi stated that the issue of granting full statehood has always been a core agenda for the Congress.

What did  Rahul Gandhi say in Puducherry?

Addressing a public rally at Lawspet in Puducherry ahead of the assembly elections, he announced that if the Congress alliance comes to power, it will provide a monthly financial assistance of ₹2,000 to unemployed youth and create 30,000 new jobs across the public and private sectors. Rahul also pledged that, within six months of assuming power, the long-pending local body elections in the Union Territory would be conducted.

Criticizing the NDA-led government, Gandhi alleged that the administration in Puducherry is being run via a "remote control" from Delhi and does not reflect the will of the people. He further claimed that industrial activity in the region has declined, adversely impacting employment opportunities. During the event, while promising free bus services for women, Rahul Gandhi remarked, "I see many women here, and I am delighted to announce that you will soon be able to travel on buses completely free of cost."

Will Amit Shah Campaign for NDA Candidates?

Meanwhile, senior BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to arrive in Puducherry to campaign for the NDA candidates. His itinerary includes addressing a public rally on Thirukkanur Main Road, where he will speak in support of A. Namassivayam, the BJP candidate for the Mannadipet constituency. Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin is also scheduled to campaign in Puducherry at a later date as part of the election campaign trail.