Congress Will Allow 21-year-olds To Contest Assembly, LS Polls, Says Revanth

The Chief Minister made this announcement after paying floral tributes to former Prime minister Rajiv Gandhi on the occasion of his 81st birth anniversary near the Secretariat, in the presence of Cabinet colleagues and senior party leaders. Describing Rajiv Gandhi as a symbol of youth empowerment, technological advancement, and transparency, he said today’s Congress drew inspiration from the late Prime Minister’s vision.

“Rajiv Gandhi gave every Indian above 18 years the right to vote, making youth a decisive force in democracy. In the same spirit, the Congress will ensure that those aged 21 years are eligible to contest elections. This will be our tribute to Rajiv Gandhi’s ideals when Rahul Gandhi becomes Prime Minister,” he declared.

The Chief Minister praised Rajiv Gandhi’s transformative policies that set India on a new path. He recalled that it was Rajiv Gandhi who introduced computers, ushered in the telecom revolution, brought transparency in governance, and laid the foundations of Hi-Tech City in Hyderabad. He also highlighted Rajiv Gandhi’s role in empowering women through reservations in local bodies and his efforts to uplift the weaker sections. “Rajiv Gandhi sacrificed his life for the unity and integrity of the nation, and his vision continues to inspire India’s progress,” he said.

He asserted that Rahul Gandhi was the rightful inheritor of this legacy and the natural choice to lead the country. “Rajiv Gandhi laid the foundation for modern India, and Rahul Gandhi will complete that journey. Until Rahul becomes Prime Minister, Congress workers will not rest,” he declared.

Linking national goals with the state’s progress, Revanth Reddy said Telangana’s Congress government was implementing Rajiv Gandhi’s spirit of inclusive development. He cited the recent provision of 42 per cent reservations for Backward Classes and the categorisation of Scheduled Castes as examples of landmark initiatives. “Our government is committed to social justice and will continue to drive Telangana forward on the path of socio-economic growth,” he added.

Revanth Reddy said that Rahul Gandhi, if made Prime Minister, would fulfil Rajiv Gandhi’s unfinished dreams. “India needs Rahul Gandhi’s leadership, and the Congress will ensure his elevation to the nation’s highest office. Only then can Rajiv Gandhi’s aspirations be truly realised,” he said.