Rahul Gandhi Accuses Centre of Running Puducherry for Adani, Reaffirms Statehood Commitment

New Delhi, Apr 06 : Rahul Gandhi on Monday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of controlling Puducherry through a “remote control administration,” alleging that the Union Territory is being governed from Delhi rather than by its people.

Addressing an election rally in Lawspet ahead of the April 9 Assembly polls, Gandhi said the BJP had failed to deliver on its promise of granting full statehood to Puducherry. He reiterated that the Congress remains committed to fulfilling this demand if voted to power.

He also pledged to conduct long-pending civic body elections within six months, emphasizing the need for a government that reflects the voice of local residents.

Highlighting economic concerns, Gandhi claimed that Puducherry’s industrial and textile sectors are witnessing severe decline, with multiple factories shutting down. He further alleged widespread corruption, accusing the current administration of operating as a “collection agent” with commissions on contracts.

Targeting corporate influence, Gandhi alleged that the BJP led system was functioning in the interest of industrialist Gautam Adani, claiming that strategic assets like Karaikal Port had been handed over to him.

He also raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the pharmaceutical sector, stating that fake medicine production was a serious issue that authorities had failed to address.

Outlining his party’s election promises, Gandhi said a Congress-led government would introduce monthly financial assistance of ₹2,000 for unemployed youth, generate 30,000 jobs, provide free bus travel for women, and extend the upper age limit for government jobs to 40 years. He also announced a proposal for ₹20 lakh health insurance coverage per family.

The Puducherry Assembly elections are scheduled for April 9, with both ruling and opposition alliances gearing up for a closely contested battle.