In a strong show of unity, Maharashtra's top leadership has taken to the campaign trail, vehemently defending the state government's flagship welfare initiatives, particularly the Ladki Bahin scheme. With municipal council and nagar panchayat elections on the horizon, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde used separate public meetings to counter opposition claims and reassure the electorate.
Fadnavis's Firm Assurance in Wardha
Addressing a gathering at the Deoli weekly market in Wardha on Sunday, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched a spirited defense of his government's welfare policies. He was campaigning for Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidates contesting in the upcoming local body polls.
Fadnavis categorically stated that as long as he remains the Chief Minister, no one can stop the Ladki Bahin scheme. He dismissed rumors that the scheme, along with free electricity for farmers and other honor schemes, would be discontinued. "Not a single rupee meant for Ladki Bahins has been discontinued. Not a single welfare scheme has been discontinued in the last one year," he asserted.
He also promised an end to the rule of administrators in municipal councils, heralding a return to people's rule. Reflecting on broader development, Fadnavis claimed that while the city had been neglected for five decades, systematic planning for villages and cities began after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government came to power in 2014.
The Wardha event was attended by Minister of State and Guardian Minister Pankaj Bhoyar, MLAs Rajesh Bakane, Sameer Kunawar, and Dadarav Keche, former MP Ramdas Tadas, and BJP municipal council president candidate Shobha Tadas.
Shinde's Emotional Pitch in Amravati
Approximately 100 kilometers away, in Anjangaon Surji, Amravati district, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was holding a rally for Shiv Sena candidates. While echoing Fadnavis's commitment to the Ladki Bahin scheme, Shinde also highlighted his own contribution—the Ladka Bhau Yojana.
"Though Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme remains a cherished decision during my stint as chief minister, I also introduced a youth training and stipend scheme, Ladka Bhau Yojana, for youngsters," Shinde said. He acknowledged the scheme faced some difficulties but promised a resolution, ensuring training would begin for unemployed youth soon.
Shinde reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to the Ladki Bahin scheme, stating, "The govt is committed to keep it going." He expressed personal pride in the initiative, saying, "I have served as CM and DyCM, but for me recognition as ‘Bhau' who launched the Ladki Bahin scheme is important."
In an emotional appeal, Shinde stressed his humble origins, saying he was not born with a golden spoon. "But I would bring golden days for common people. For me people matter more than earning money," he declared. He envisioned a powerful coalition of beneficiaries, stating, "If Ladki Bahin, Ladka Bhau, Ladka Putanya, Ladka Farmer all come together, Sena's saffron will fly high." Former MP Anandrao Adsul and former MLA Abhijit Adsul were present at this rally.
Political Significance and Road Ahead
The coordinated messaging from both leaders underscores the political importance of welfare schemes in the grassroots elections. The Ladki Bahin scheme, a direct financial assistance program for women, has become a central rallying point. The simultaneous defense of the scheme by the CM and DyCM, who belong to allied but distinct parties (BJP and Shiv Sena respectively), signals a strategic alignment to present a united front to voters.
Their speeches focused on continuity, development, and a direct connection with the common citizen's aspirations. As the campaign for municipal council and nagar panchayat polls intensifies, these assurances aim to solidify the support base by directly addressing concerns about the stability and future of popular government initiatives.
