Maharashtra State Assembly Election 2024 has seen the launch of competing financial promises aimed at women and unemployed youth, sparking intense debate between political parties. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's government recently rolled out the "Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana," pledging Rs 1,500 per month for women in certain income brackets. In response, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance—comprising Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), and Congress—promised to double this amount, offering Rs 3,000 monthly if they win the election.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, an NCP leader aligned with the current government, criticized the MVA's pledge, calling it unrealistic. Pawar argued that the MVA’s promises could place an undue burden on the state budget, projecting that Rs 3,000 per month to eligible women and Rs 4,000 to unemployed youth would cost around Rs 1.5 lakh crore, or about one-fifth of the state’s Rs 7 lakh crore budget. He highlighted concerns about the feasibility of maintaining such programs alongside mandatory state expenses like salaries and pensions.
Responding to queries about the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) concerns regarding financially heavy state welfare schemes, Pawar noted that while the RBI assesses finances strictly, elected officials must also consider public welfare.
In separate matters, Ajit Pawar dismissed the possibility of Prime Minister Modi rallying for him in his Baramati constituency, emphasizing that campaign efforts were better directed to other areas. He also clarified his absence from the Diwali Padva gathering at his uncle Sharad Pawar's residence, explaining it as a logistical decision rather than a sign of discord.
When asked about Sharad Pawar’s recent remarks hinting at possible retirement from parliamentary politics after his current Rajya Sabha term, Ajit Pawar expressed uncertainty, though he referenced Sharad Pawar’s previous decision to remain NCP chief after announcing intentions to step down.
Ajit Pawar also confirmed his support for NCP candidate Nawab Malik in the Mankhurd-Shivajinagar constituency, despite Malik’s ongoing legal issues related to a money laundering case. He remarked that Malik’s charges are allegations until proven, though BJP ally Pravin Darekar indicated his party would not support Malik's campaign. Ajit Pawar acknowledged BJP’s decision as their prerogative.