Express News Service
RAJKOT/AHMEDABAD/SURAT: With AAP looking to cater to the South Gujarat demography of diamond and embroidery merchants, it has been subject to sharp criticism from locals as well. Looking to replicate Punjab and Delhi model in the state, the party has announced 300 units of free electricity every month, Rs 3,000 for the unemployed and Rs 1,000 for every adult woman per month, 80 per cent quota for local youth in private sector jobs, Rs 40 per day for the upkeep of each cow and revert to the old pension scheme.
“Gujaratis have never run after freebies, everything comes from the tax we pay,” said Bhargav Sohagia, a resident of Varachha and an entrepreneur in the hospitality sector. Refusing to comment on who has an advantage between Alpesh Kathiriya, the AAP candidate and Kishorbhai Kanani of BJP, he said, “It’s about who is able to gain the trust of the public – I am sure diamond merchants recognise their jewels well.” While there is a perception of AAP’s growing popularity in the state, many Gujaratis are concerned about the possible slowing down of progress and infrastructure amidst AAP’s plan to give away freebies in a bid to achieve their political goals.
“Gujarat residents have always been ahead of the curve. Better ports, world class infrastructure and services that boosts businesses and jobs,” said Anamoy Mitra, partner in an aviation and logistic firm. Bhavesh Patel who is in weaving business added, “In fact, we do not rely on the government sometimes and are even ready to pay for facilities that boost business.”
RAJKOT/AHMEDABAD/SURAT: With AAP looking to cater to the South Gujarat demography of diamond and embroidery merchants, it has been subject to sharp criticism from locals as well. Looking to replicate Punjab and Delhi model in the state, the party has announced 300 units of free electricity every month, Rs 3,000 for the unemployed and Rs 1,000 for every adult woman per month, 80 per cent quota for local youth in private sector jobs, Rs 40 per day for the upkeep of each cow and revert to the old pension scheme.
“Gujaratis have never run after freebies, everything comes from the tax we pay,” said Bhargav Sohagia, a resident of Varachha and an entrepreneur in the hospitality sector. Refusing to comment on who has an advantage between Alpesh Kathiriya, the AAP candidate and Kishorbhai Kanani of BJP, he said, “It’s about who is able to gain the trust of the public – I am sure diamond merchants recognise their jewels well.” While there is a perception of AAP’s growing popularity in the state, many Gujaratis are concerned about the possible slowing down of progress and infrastructure amidst AAP’s plan to give away freebies in a bid to achieve their political goals.
“Gujarat residents have always been ahead of the curve. Better ports, world class infrastructure and services that boosts businesses and jobs,” said Anamoy Mitra, partner in an aviation and logistic firm. Bhavesh Patel who is in weaving business added, “In fact, we do not rely on the government sometimes and are even ready to pay for facilities that boost business.”
