Kerala needs a woman CM: Rahul Gandhi highlights congress welfare guarantees

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday drew enthusiastic applause at a public rally here after expressing hope that Kerala would one day have a woman chief minister .

Addressing a gathering in Puthuppally, Gandhi highlighted a series of welfare “guarantees” promised by the Congress if voted to power in the state. These include free bus travel for women in the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,000 for college-going girl students .

Emphasising the party’s focus on women’s empowerment , Gandhi said the Congress envisions women as active participants in Kerala’s development . “We are looking forward to the day when Kerala has a woman chief minister ,” he said, a remark that drew loud cheers from the crowd.

Noting the response, he also claimed that men were not applauding enough , adding a lighter moment to the rally.

Gandhi reiterated that the party is committed to enabling women to fulfil their aspirations . “We want women of Kerala to fulfil their dreams. Whatever they want to do, we want them to succeed ,” he said.

He further stressed that the Congress would work to ensure women have the freedom to travel safely and pursue careers of their choice . As part of this vision, he said, the proposed free KSRTC travel scheme would enhance mobility and independence for women across the state.

The remarks come as the Congress steps up its outreach efforts ahead of upcoming political contests in Kerala, placing a strong emphasis on gender-focused welfare measures and inclusive governance .