NCP Pushes for Ajit Pawar's Legacy in Kolhapur Scheme Renaming
In a significant political move, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has formally demanded that the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin scheme be renamed in honor of the late deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar. This demand was articulated by NCP leaders in Kolhapur, who emphasized that the scheme's smooth implementation was largely due to Pawar's financial acumen during his tenure as finance minister.
Demand Articulated by NCP Leaders
MLC Amol Mitkari directly addressed chief minister Devendra Fadnavis with this request. Mitkari elaborated that the scheme, initiated for women, transcends mere financial assistance. "It is a program designed to bestow the dignity and honor that our sisters rightfully deserve," he stated. He highlighted Ajit Pawar's lifelong dedication to women's empowerment, noting, "Ajitdada consistently championed the cause of women's rights and provided crucial support to this initiative. To commemorate his enduring legacy and acknowledge his substantial contributions, I urge that the Ladki Bahin scheme bear his name."
Political Claims and Financial Oversight
Adding weight to the demand, Hasan Mushrif, the minister of medical education and a senior NCP functionary, spoke at a Zilla Parishad election rally. He asserted the party's ownership of the scheme, remarking, "We collectively introduced this scheme, as we are all part of the governing coalition. However, the control over the state's treasury rested with Ajit Pawar." Mushrif pointed out that Aditi Tatkare, the women and child development minister from the NCP, officially signed off on the scheme, reinforcing their claim.
He further mentioned that following Pawar's passing, the finance portfolio is currently held by the chief minister, who has assured its return to the NCP after the legislative assembly session. This assurance is seen as a pivotal point in ongoing political negotiations.
Scheme's Political Significance and Broader Context
The Ladki Bahin scheme has become a focal point in Maharashtra's political landscape. Recently, at Zilla Parishad poll rallies, Eknath Shinde, Shiv Sena chief and deputy chief minister, credited himself with initiating the scheme. He shared personal motivations, stating it was designed to protect women from the financial hardships experienced by his mother and wife in managing household expenses. Shinde assured that under his leadership, the scheme's implementation would proceed without interruption.
Mahayuti functionaries attribute the coalition's landslide victory in the assembly election to the popularity of this scheme, underscoring its electoral importance.
Background on Ajit Pawar
Ajit Pawar, a prominent figure in Maharashtra politics, tragically died in an aircraft crash near Baramati on January 28. His demise has sparked discussions about honoring his contributions, particularly in areas like financial governance and women's welfare, which are central to the current demand.
The NCP's push to rename the scheme reflects a broader effort to cement Pawar's legacy and assert the party's influence in key policy initiatives, making this a notable development in state politics.
