The political ambiance in Delhi is heating up amidst the chilly air. Controversy swirls around the Aam Aadmi Party's scheme. Mere days after its launch, the Women's Respect Scheme is under scrutiny. The LG of Delhi has ordered an investigation into the scheme. Provoked by Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit's complaint, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena has instructed the Chief Secretary to probe registration-related charges under the 'Women Respect Scheme'. This has become a thorn for Kejriwal.
What did Arvind Kejriwal say?
As soon as the order was made public, Kejriwal responded sharply. He claimed that both BJP and Congress do not want this scheme for women to be implemented. Kejriwal suggested that if his party doesn't come to power, this scheme will be obstructed by BJP-Congress. The timing of the scheme's recall raises questions amid the approaching Delhi elections. Will funds reach the accounts of Delhi's women before the elections under this Women's Respect Scheme? Or is the Aam Aadmi Party trying to harness votes under the guise of registration?
Retaliation by Congress and BJP
Congress and BJP quickly grasped Kejriwal's tactics and retaliated fiercely against the Aam Aadmi Party. With elections yet to be announced, what does this heated exchange signify? Where will the political narrative head once election dates are declared?
Kejriwal's Shield Meets LG's Red Card
The vital issue that Kejriwal embraced as his armor, aimed at clinching Delhi elections, has received a red card from the LG. An investigation into AAP's 2100-rupee women's scheme has been ordered. In separate letters, the LG emphasized three concerns to Delhi's Chief Secretary and Divisional Commissioner.
First Concern:
An investigation into the Aam Aadmi Party's 2100-rupee Women's Respect Scheme.
Second Concern:
Sandeep Dikshit alleged that Punjab's intelligence police reached his residence.
Third Concern:
Allegations of election funds transferred from Punjab to Delhi.
Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of not fulfilling its promises. Questioning the Women's Respect Scheme, he asked why the notification wasn't issued despite cabinet approval.
Dikshit stated, "AAP leaders claim the Women's Respect Scheme was approved by the cabinet, but where is the notification? Similar promises were made in Punjab that were never fulfilled."
Meanwhile, BJP leader Parvesh Verma accused Kejriwal of unfulfilled promises in Punjab and deceit in Delhi. He alleged fake cards for women were being created without actually launching the scheme, labeling it a scam.
The Aam Aadmi Party is outraged by Delhi LG's order. AAP claims the directive originated not from the LG's Office, but from Amit Shah's Office, leading Kejriwal to vocally criticize the BJP.
What is Kejriwal's Party Claiming?
Kejriwal's party asserts that every woman in the capital will receive a monthly economic aid of 1000 rupees, which will increase to 2100 rupees if they win the upcoming assembly elections. The BJP continues to challenge this strategic move by AAP.
Where Women's Schemes Shaped Governments
As Delhi elections loom, the significance of the Women's Respect Scheme isn't lost, reflecting an impactful narrative where it influenced political shifts across states. For example, in Madhya Pradesh, BJP renewed their government through the Ladli Bahna initiative, promising women 1000 rupees monthly, later increased as part of a strategic plan.
Similarly, Maharashtra's Ladki Bahna Scheme provided one crore women with 1500 rupees monthly, facilitating the coalition's political gains. Jharkhand's Maaya Samman Initiative promised women 1000 rupees monthly from August, aiding Hemant Soren's return to power. West Bengal's Lakshmi Bhandar was launched in February 2021, initially offering modest amounts before providing 1000 rupees to general women and 1200 to SC-ST women, benefiting Mamata Banerjee's governance. In Karnataka, the Griha Lakshmi Scheme helped Congress gain power by offering each household's female head 2000 rupees, effectively redefining the political landscape.
Success Formula Sparks Chaos in Delhi
This political formula could win elections, and when Kejriwal attempts to replicate it in Delhi, obstacles arise. Concerns emerge on how an incumbent party can promise women that only if they vote for Kejriwal will the scheme's benefits be accessible. Card issuance with the caveat that benefits hinge on voting for Kejriwal sparks further debate.
