Congress leader Alka Lamba announced that the party’s central leadership will decide on forming alliances with regional parties in Jammu and Kashmir for the upcoming Assembly elections. She noted that while the party won two out of three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir, the ultimate decision on the Assembly elections alliance will come from ongoing discussions between central and local leaders.
During a women’s convention organized by AICC general secretary Ghulam Ahmad Mir and presided over by Lamba, she responded to speculation about Ghulam Nabi Azad potentially rejoining Congress. Lamba expressed openness, stating, “The Congress party’s heart is very large,” and emphasized that any decision to return lies with the individuals, as the party remains welcoming.
Lamba also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign, pointing to recent high-profile cases of violence against women and accusing the government of failing to ensure justice and security.
Alka Lamba promised significant reforms for women if the party secures victory in the upcoming Assembly elections on October 4. Highlighting the pressing issue of women’s safety, she assured that the Congress government would address the rising costs of domestic necessities. Specifically, she pledged to reduce gas cylinder prices, which have increased under the current administration, and to introduce affordable sanitary napkin machines. These machines would be provided to women, with plans to distribute free napkins in schools and hospitals.
Lamba also announced plans to offer 200-300 units of free electricity to households in Jammu and Kashmir. In addition, she committed to eliminating transportation charges for women, mirroring policies in other Congress-ruled states. These initiatives aim to ease the financial burden on women and enhance their overall quality of life.
In closing, Lamba expressed her gratitude to the women who participated in the women’s leadership convention, reaffirming the Congress party’s commitment to improving women’s safety, employment opportunities, and welfare.