PM Modi Slams Congress For Promise Of Subsidised LPG Cylinders To 'Infiltrators' in Jharkhand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday criticised the Congress over Jharkhand politician Ghulam Ahmad Mir's promise of subsidised LPG cylinders for "infiltrators," describing the statement as indicative of the party's tactics to undermine the nation.

"Today, a Congress leader has stated in Jharkhand that they will provide cheap gas cylinders to Hindus, Muslims, and infiltrators. Should people who praise infiltrators be given any opportunity anywhere? This is an example of the games they are playing with the country and the bright future of your children to secure votes," he remarked.

Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir, who serves as the AICC general secretary and Jharkhand in-charge, pledged during a rally at Chandrapura that LPG cylinders would be made available in Jharkhand at a subsidised rate of Rs 450.

"We have promised that gas cylinders will be provided at Rs 450 from December 1 if our government is formed. This will be for the general public-whether they are Hindus, Muslims, or infiltrators-it will be given to all Jharkhand citizens without considering any other factors," Mir declared.

Currently, domestic LPG cylinders cost Rs 860 in major cities of Jharkhand.

The BJP has accused infiltrators of marrying tribal women to claim their land and has promised to introduce legislation to prevent such activities.

BJP leaders Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Yogi Adityanath also criticised Mir's promise.

Chouhan alleged that the Congress-JMM-RJD alliance had been supporting infiltration in Jharkhand. Speaking at an election rally in Birni, Giridih district, he claimed, "Lakhs of infiltrators have entered Jharkhand, and the government has helped them obtain voter and ration cards."

Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated, "The BJP will not allow Congress to offer LPG subsidies to infiltrators."

Voting for the first phase of the Jharkhand Assembly elections was held on 13 November, with the second phase scheduled for November 20. The votes will be counted on November 23.