Sanjay Raut Criticizes 'Ladla Bhai' Scheme, Calls It an Election Gimmick

Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut has criticized Maharashtra's 'Ladla Bhai' scheme as an election gimmick. He challenges the government to provide more substantial financial support to women instead. Raut also comments on recent political developments and praises police efforts against Naxals in Gadchiroli.

In a sharp critique of Eknath Shinde's Maharashtra government, Shiv Sena UBT leader Sanjay Raut labeled the 'Ladla Bhai' scheme as an election gimmick, challenging the government to offer Rs 10,000 to women instead of male students.

Raut, in an ANI interview, asserted, "Ladla Bhai, Ladle Pitaji, Ladli Mataji--all these schemes are aimed at the upcoming Vidhan Sabha elections. The government has no money, with an Rs 8 lakh crore debt hanging over Maharashtra." He accused the Shinde-Fadnavis-Pawar coalition of remembering 'Ladli Behen' and 'Ladla Bhai' only after losing the Lok Sabha elections.

Raut pointed out, "They are offering Rs 1,500 to 'Ladli Behen' and Rs 6,000 to 12th pass students, while graduates get Rs 10,000. If they are truly compassionate, they should give Rs 10,000 per month to 'Ladli Behen' as she manages household expenses. People see through this election trickery and won't be fooled."

Commenting on recent political events, Raut said, "I am unaware of Chhagan Bhujbal's meeting with Sharad Pawar and the resignations within NCP (Ajit Pawar faction). It's Sharad Pawar Ji's issue to handle."

Raut also praised the Maharashtra police for a successful encounter with Naxals in Gadchiroli, where 12 Naxals were killed and several weapons recovered. The Maharashtra government recently introduced the 'Ladla Bhai Yojna' to financially support male students: Rs 6,000 for 12th pass, Rs 8,000 for diploma holders, and Rs 10,000 for graduates.

Last week, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar presented the state budget in the Maharashtra Assembly, introducing the 'Mukhyanantri Majhi Ladki Bahin' scheme. Modeled after BJP's Madhya Pradesh 'Ladli Behna Yojana,' it promises Rs 1,500 per month to women between 21 and 60 years from July 2024. Ajit Pawar extended the application deadline to August 31 and raised the age limit to 65.

(With inputs from agencies.)