Political Tensions Rise in Maharashtra Ahead of Assembly Polls

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju claims the 'Ladki Behen' scheme's success has unsettled Congress, sparking unconvincing promises. As Maharashtra's assembly polls near, the Mahayuti alliance faces off with the opposition MVA coalition. The Baramati contest, starring Ajit and Yugendra Pawar, is a focal point of this high-stakes election.

Union Minister and BJP leader Kiren Rijiju asserted on Saturday that the 'Ladki Behen' scheme's success in Maharashtra has created concern among Congress leaders, alleging their promises lack public trust. During a press conference, Rijiju highlighted the popularity of the 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Behan Yojana' among the populace.

Since 2014, various central government schemes have been enacted, bringing satisfaction among Maharashtra's women, according to Rijiju. He remarked that Congress' core group is apprehensive about the scheme's support, leading them to make insincere promises, contrasting BJP's historical initiatives like the 'garibi hatao' slogan, which he claims lacked substance.

Political campaigning is intensifying in Maharashtra for the assembly elections. The MVA coalition, consisting of Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the NCP, aims to unseat the Mahayuti alliance, featuring the BJP and factions of both Shiv Sena and NCP. A notable battle in Baramati will see NCP leader Ajit Pawar competing against his nephew, Yugendra Pawar. The Maharashtra assembly elections are set for November 20, with results on November 23.

(With inputs from agencies.)