After AINRC, Congress too rules out prohibition in Puducherry
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Speaking to reporters, Congress leader and former Union Minister V Narayanasamy said, "There is absolutely no scope for introduction of total prohibition in Puducherry in view of its unique culture".
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Prohibition is absolutely not feasible in Puducherry, he said after PCC leader A Namassivayam released the Congress manifesto.
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This comes a day after AINRC leader and Chief Minister N Rangasamy said there was no scope for total prohibition in the Union Territory as excise collected from liquor trade forms a major chunk of the revenue.
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Narayanasamy said if the Congress-DMK combine was voted to power in the May 16 assembly polls, efforts would be made for special category statehood status to Puducherry with fiscal benefits from the Centre.
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The manifesto also promised waiver of loans borrowed by farmers from banks, holding of civic polls with 50 per cent reservation for women in decision-making posts in local bodies and hike in monthly pension to freedom fighters from the present Rs 7,000 to Rs 10,000.
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It also promised implementation of 'Goondas Act' and assured a peaceful environment, espcially for industrialists, and free set-top boxes for each television connection.
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Namassivayam said a new industrial policy would be introduced and steps would be taken to attract foreign investors in industrial sector.
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The manifesto also assured 50 per cent subsidy to power consumers and steps for the welfare of fishermen, minorities, scheduled castes and backward classes.
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Namassivayam said his party was against offering freebies in the manifesto as "we will promise only that which we can implement", referring to the promises made by ruling AINRC.