Controversy Erupts Over Ladki Bahin Yojana Amid Badlapur Assault Incident

BJP leader Chitra Wagh alleges that the opposition is using the sexual assault incident in Badlapur to target Maharashtra's women-centric Ladki Bahin Yojana. The protests triggered by the assault saw major disruptions, and police actions were taken. The appointment of Ujjwal Nikam as special prosecutor faced opposition from Maha Vikas Aghadi.

BJP leader Chitra Wagh has accused the opposition of leveraging the tragic sexual assault on two schoolgirls in Badlapur to criticize the Maharashtra government's Ladki Bahin Yojana.

The shocking incident involved a sweeper allegedly assaulting two girls on August 11 and 12, sparking massive protests that halted train services for over 10 hours on August 20. The protests were spearheaded by individuals brought in from various areas, according to Wagh.

The opposition alliance Maha Vikas Aghadi initially called for a state-wide bandh, which was subsequently withdrawn following a declaration by the Bombay High Court deeming it unconstitutional. The state government has responded to the parents' request by appointing Ujjwal Nikam as special public prosecutor, a move opposed by the alliance. Wagh highlighted that during Uddhav Thackeray's tenure, aid for women victims was significantly delayed compared to the current administration.

(With inputs from agencies.)