In a strategic move to connect with voters and garner support, Rahul Gandhi, former Congress president and former Wayanad MP, embarked on a visit to Bengaluru on May 8. His agenda included a visit to a Cafe Coffee Day on Cunningham Road, followed by a ride on a Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) bus, where he engaged in conversations with women commuters. The primary focus of his discussions revolved around the promises made by the Congress party in their poll manifesto for the upcoming Karnataka Assembly elections, scheduled to be held on May 10.
After exiting the coffee shop, Rahul Gandhi made his way to a nearby BMTC bus stop, where he seized the opportunity to meet and interact with college-going students and working women. With a genuine intent to understand their concerns and aspirations, he engaged in meaningful conversations abou1t the party’s proposed policies. Among the key promises, he highlighted the Congress’ commitment to providing free travel for women in government-owned buses, including BMTC and KSRTC services. This initiative aimed to empower women by making public transportation more accessible and affordable.
During his time on the BMTC bus, Rahul Gandhi had the chance to directly communicate with the passengers, discussing the Congress party’s vision for a more inclusive and prosperous society. He emphasized the party’s proposed program called “Gruhalakshmi,” which entailed providing a financial benefit of ₹2000 to women who serve as the heads of their households. This initiative aimed to alleviate economic burdens faced by women and empower them in managing their households effectively.
As Rahul Gandhi conversed with the women on the bus, they shared their experiences and concerns regarding transportation issues and the rising cost of living. Transportation emerged as a significant challenge for many, hindering their mobility and impacting their daily lives. The women also expressed their distress over the escalating prices of essential commodities, which strained their monthly budgets. Rahul Gandhi attentively listened to their stories, acknowledging the hardships they faced, and reassured them that the Congress party was committed to addressing these issues effectively.
By personally engaging with voters and actively listening to their concerns, Rahul Gandhi demonstrated his dedication to understanding the needs and aspirations of the people. His visit to the Cafe Coffee Day and subsequent interactions on the BMTC bus showcased his willingness to connect with voters from different walks of life, including students, working women, and common commuters. By doing so, he aimed to build trust and establish a strong rapport with the electorate.
The promises made by Rahul Gandhi on behalf of the Congress party during his visit resonated with many women in Bengaluru, who found solace in the prospect of free bus travel and economic support. The initiatives proposed in the party’s manifesto aimed to empower women, facilitate their participation in the workforce, and alleviate the financial burdens they face as the primary caregivers in their households.
As the Karnataka Assembly elections drew closer, Rahul Gandhi’s visit and his interactions with voters played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing electoral outcomes. The promises made by the Congress party, particularly those pertaining to women’s empowerment and economic well-being, struck a chord with many citizens. It remains to be seen how these engagements and the party’s proposals will resonate with voters as they head to the polls on May 10.