Shadow Correspondent
JAMMU, Sep 05:
Jaswant Singh, an Independent candidate contesting from the Nagrota Assembly Constituency, unveiled a comprehensive election manifesto at a press conference in Jammu today.
Flanked by his close aides, Balwant Raj Kataria and Faqir Chand Satia, Singh outlined a progressive agenda rooted in addressing key socio-economic issues that have long plagued the region.
Singh’s vision departs from the traditional focus on religion, caste, and regional politics, instead centering around employment, welfare programmes, and infrastructure development.
In his manifesto, Singh expressed his concern about the state of contemporary politics, noting that critical issues like development and economic growth are often overshadowed by religious, caste, and regional agendas.
He emphasized that democracy thrives when political parties focus on policy matters, allowing voters to make informed decisions based on progressive blueprints and ideas.
“My primary goal is to refocus political discourse on tangible issues that can improve the lives of people in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Jaswant Singh said unemployment one of the cornerstone issues which he described as a growing crisis in the region. He promised to advocate for more opportunities for the youth and to push the Government of India for policies that would ensure long-term job creation and economic growth in the UT. His approach reflects his commitment to restoring the confidence of the people in governance and the economy. His manifesto underlines the importance of creating sustainable jobs, particularly for the younger generation, to secure a stable future for Jammu and Kashmir.
Singh proposed that special attention be paid to addressing crimes against women, particularly sexual harassment. He is advocating for the death penalty for those convicted of heinous crimes such as sexual assault, signaling his zero-tolerance policy on violence against women. This, he said, would not only serve as a deterrent but also reaffirm the government’s commitment to protecting women’s rights and dignity.
Jaswant also expressed his deep concern for the welfare of daily wage workers, a significant portion of the workforce in the region. He promised to push for the guaranteed regularization of their jobs, offering stability and security to those employed in precarious, low-wage positions.
For elderly citizens, Jaswant Singh proposed a monthly pension of Rs 3,000 for individuals over the age of 60, which would be facilitated through Panchayat-level camps. He focus on grassroots-level governance highlights his commitment to ensuring that every segment of society, including the elderly, is taken care of.
The manifesto addresses a number of issues affecting farmers and rural communities. Singh proposed a 50% subsidy on diesel for tractor owners, along with necessary permissions for tractor and trolley owners to engage in mining activities. This would not only alleviate financial burdens on farmers but also create additional income-generating opportunities in rural areas.
Singh also promised to work on updating the addresses of married women within three months of their marriage, a move aimed at easing bureaucratic hurdles in rural governance.
Infrastructure development is another major priority in Singh’s manifesto. He proposed the construction of proper roads in every village, recognizing the importance of connectivity in fostering economic growth and improving the quality of life in rural areas.
He also called for free water supply and 500 units of free electricity to be provided to every household, along with the availability of sand and bajri (building materials) at government rates. Additionally, Singh stressed the importance of opening maize seed stores in rural regions to support agricultural productivity.
In terms of healthcare, Singh advocated for the abolition of the slip system in government hospitals and the provision of free medicines. He emphasized that people living below the poverty line should have unhindered access to government healthcare facilities. Singh also proposed free education for students up to the 12th grade, a policy he believes would empower the youth and ensure that no child is left behind due to financial constraints.
Jaswant Singh also had several proposals aimed at improving governance and easing the financial burdens on citizens. He suggested the elimination of double taxes on vehicles, arguing that either a road tax or a toll tax should be levied, but not both.
Furthermore, he called for government departments to hold camps in both rural and urban areas to address grievances directly, thereby reducing the need for people to travel to government offices for basic services.
Finally, Singh proposed a reservation of 27% for the OBC community, recognizing the need for affirmative action to ensure fair representation and opportunities for marginalized groups.
Jaswant Singh’s manifesto reflects a deep commitment to addressing real issues such as unemployment, women’s safety, rural development, and welfare programs. His proposals offer a vision for a more inclusive and equitable Jammu and Kashmir, with policies designed to uplift every section of society.
