BJP stresses good governance

The BJP manifesto released on Monday carries the imprint of its prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi’s “vision” of “good governance and development,” but adheres to the party’s commitment to the Ram temple, uniform civil code and abrogation of Article 370.

The 42-page document is full of assurances of reforms, job opportunities, revival of the economy and manufacturing, accessible and affordable health care, and a revamped education sector aimed at the “neo-middle class,” a new constituency for the party. The manifesto promises reforms in investment and taxation, an end to “tax terrorism” of the Congress and a national General Sales Tax regime, but reiterates its opposition to FDI in multi-brand retail.

The party offers affordable housing to all, and has announced a special low-cost housing programme to ensure a pucca house for every family by the time India completes 75 years of Independence. It promises to build 100 cities.

On the Ram temple, the party’s promise is limited to reiterating its stand to explore all possibilities within the “framework of the Constitution,” unlike in 2009, when it said the people had a desire to have a grand temple.