|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
| |
By Category |
 |
|
|
| |
|
| |
| |
India On Media |
|
|
|
| |
|
| |
|
|
| Others
News |
|
| Rahul woos rural heartland inOrissa |
| After presenting a populist budget, ahead of the elections early next year, the Congress got just the kind of response it was hoping for in Orissa.
|
| INDIA
, 10-March-2008
1:35:15 AM |
| Poll fever is beginning to catch on for the political parties. After Congress chief Sonia Gandhi hoped to get farmers on board with a kisan rally in the capital on Sunday, her son Rahul worked to get that message to farmers in Orissa.
With assembly elections also due in the state, the big question is whether the turnout at Rahul's rallies can be converted to votes.
After presenting a populist budget, ahead of the elections early next year, the Congress got just the kind of response it was hoping for in Orissa.
People gathered to support the youngest member of the Gandhi family and the Congress MP was quick to return the compliment.
''Someone just said that farmers should thank me, Soniaji and the Prime Minister for the loan waiver. But I believe that we should thank you for devoting your life and working so hard for the country,'' said Rahul Gandhi, General Secretary, Congress.
The support is understandable, as people here expect a lot from him. His father and grandmother had been to the state long ago and a lot was promised then.
But on the ground, little has changed. Poverty and unemployment still rule in the area. The people hope to get a helping hand from the government.
However, Rahul chose to blame the state government saying it has not been able to implement schemes launched by the Congress-led government at the Centre.
''There is no lack of money. The problem is that it is not being distributed properly,'' he said.
The Congress may be using Rahul Gandhi's trip to set the stage for elections in Orissa next year. But the big question is - will this support translate into votes.
While Sonia Gandhi was spreading her message in the capital, the son was doing the same in the heart of rural India. His political message was simple - if they are thrilled with the loan waiver package, then they should show it by voting Navin Patnaik out of the state government.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
ADVERTISEMENTS
Free offer!!! Become an administrator for your zip home page, "Post" local news (local to your postcode)& pictures, "Post" advertisement banners from local companies. Make Extra money.
|
 |
 |
|
|
| |
|
