In a strategic move on Diwali, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel announced the ‘Chhattisgarh Griha Lakshmi Yojana,’ vowing to provide Rs 15,000 annually to women if the Congress party secures victory in the upcoming 2023 Chhattisgarh Election.
Baghel’s Response to BJP’s ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana’
Expressing his Diwali wishes on social media, CM Baghel emphasized his commitment to eradicating poverty and empowering women in Chhattisgarh. The ‘Chhattisgarh Griha Lakshmi Yojana’ aims to contribute to this vision by offering financial assistance directly to women’s accounts, without the need for queues or forms.
A Battle for Women Voters Unfolds
Baghel’s announcement is perceived as a direct response to the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana,’ which promises Rs 12,000 annually to married women if the party forms the government. Political analysts view these competing schemes as part of the ongoing battle for women voters in the election.
The Chief Minister assured women that the process would be streamlined, with the government conducting surveys online to facilitate a seamless transfer of funds. This proactive approach seeks to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and ensure swift financial assistance to the intended beneficiaries.
Sources indicate that after Baghel’s announcement, the BJP has initiated efforts to encourage women to enroll in their ‘Mahtari Vandan Yojana.’ The election, marked by these contrasting promises, saw voting on 20 seats during the first phase on November 7, with the remaining 70 seats scheduled for the second phase on November 17. The anticipation builds as voters await the outcome, with the final vote count slated for December 3.
