Congress promises 50% quota for women, offers sops in UP manifesto

Lucknow, Feb 8: In an effort to woo the women voters, the Congress in its manifesto for the Uttar Pradesh assembly polls released here on Wednesday announced 50 per cent reservation for the fairer sex in urban and rural local bodies. Besides women, the manifesto also targeted youths and farmers. Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) President Raj Babbar released the document that focuses on women in a big way and said the party will distribute cycles to girl students if it comes to power. Babbar said the party was committed to the safety and honour of women and will open three women police stations in each of the 75 districts in the state in case it formed the government in politically crucial state. Babbar said the party will ensure 150 workdays under the Mahatma Gandhi tiol Rural Employment Guarantee Act. ‘Karza Maaf, Bijli Half’ (full loan waiver, electricity at half rate) is another highlight of the Congress manifesto. The party promised to come up with Kanya Sashaktikaran Yoja, a scheme to ensure Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh for every girl child on turning 18. It also promised scholarships to young women pursuing higher studies.   (IANS)