Activist Manoj Jarange Criticizes Maharashtra Govt's Vote-Buying Tactics
Activist Manoj Jarange criticized remarks by NDA ally Ravi Rana about the ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme, suggesting it was a tactic to buy votes. The scheme provides monthly aid to eligible women, but Rana hinted funds would be withdrawn if votes were unfavourable. Jarange called for Maratha community reservations.
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Activist Manoj Jarange on Wednesday voiced strong criticism towards the Maharashtra government's perceived attempts to 'buy' votes. His comments were in response to remarks made by NDA ally Ravi Rana about the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme, implying funds would be retracted if women did not vote in favour of the ruling party.
The 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana' offers monthly financial aid of Rs 1,500 to women aged between 21 and 65 in the state. Addressing an event in Amravati, Ravi Rana suggested that the amount could be increased to Rs 3,000 post-elections, scheduled for October-November, but warned of withdrawing the aid if votes were not favourable. This statement has stirred significant controversy.
Drawing parallels with moneylending, Jarange contended that the government aims to secure votes through financial incentives, which he believes will not fool the public. Furthermore, Jarange is pressing for OBC category reservations for the Maratha community by August 29. He plans to gather assembly-wise data from August 20-27 before potentially fielding candidates, while remaining non-committal on forming political alliances.
(With inputs from agencies.)