Political Tensions Rise Over 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana'

In response to AAP's planned 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana,' the BJP in West Bengal labeled it as tokenism, highlighting ongoing economic hardships of priests despite similar measures. TMC defended its welfare initiatives against BJP criticisms, accusing both AAP and TMC of distorting social welfare for electoral gain.

The political climate heated up this week as the West Bengal BJP critiqued AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal's plan to initiate the 'Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana.' The BJP claims this move is merely tokenism, akin to the monthly stipends given to Hindu priests in West Bengal.

Kejriwal announced the scheme on Monday, promising a monthly allowance of Rs 18,000 for Hindu temple priests and gurdwara granthis if AAP retains power in Delhi. Coming ahead of Delhi Assembly elections, the move aims to consolidate AAP's voter base amid accusations of religiously driven vote-seeking.

Criticism was not limited to rival parties. BJP spokesman Samik Bhattacharya expressed concern over the economic plight of religious figures despite similar measures in West Bengal. In defense, TMC's Jaiprakash Majumdar credited his party with pioneering welfare initiatives that the BJP later adopted. The debate underscores the complex interplay between social welfare and electoral politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)