Maharashtra CM Denies Link Between Welfare Schemes and Elections

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde addressed concerns regarding the timing of recent welfare initiatives, including the Mukhyamantri Ladki Bahin Yojana and the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, asserting that these programs are not politically motivated ahead of the upcoming assembly elections. Shinde emphasized that the schemes are designed for long-term benefit, with an allocation of Rs 55,000 crore for the first year, countering opposition claims that they are merely short-term measures. During an event hosted by the Marathi OTT platform Mumbai Tak, Shinde criticized the opposition for attempting to undermine the government's efforts, stating that they have historically failed to provide financial support to women. He dismissed allegations that the government’s financial initiatives were a response to the perceived ineffectiveness of Hindutva politics in previous elections, insisting that the Ram Mandir project is rooted in faith rather than political strategy. Shinde also took a jab at former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, asserting that effective governance requires active engagement rather than passive leadership. He highlighted the government's commitment to development and disaster rehabilitation, urging the public and media to recognize the positive impact of ongoing projects like Atal Setu and Samruddhi Mahamarg. Confident in the government's achievements, Shinde expressed optimism about the upcoming elections, predicting that the Mahayuti alliance will regain power in Maharashtra, bolstered by the success of their initiatives and infrastructure projects.