The Rs 18,000 Salary For Priests announcement by Arvind Kejriwal has stirred political discussions ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. On December 30, Kejriwal, former Chief Minister of Delhi and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader, pledged a monthly salary of Rs 18,000 for temple priests and gurudwara granthis if AAP is re-elected to power.
Kejriwal’s Announcement For Priests And Granthis
Addressing a press conference, Kejriwal highlighted the long-overlooked contributions of religious custodians. “Priests and granthis have been the custodians of our religious customs, serving society selflessly. Unfortunately, no one has taken care of their financial well-being,” he said.
He also announced that registration for the scheme would commence immediately, adding that he would personally launch the process at Delhi’s Hanuman Temple. Urging the BJP not to obstruct the initiative, Kejriwal remarked, “Blocking this will be akin to sinning as they are our bridge to God.”
This promise forms part of a series of welfare schemes unveiled by AAP, including the Sanjeevani Yojana and Mahila Samman Yojana.
Previous AAP Welfare Schemes
Under the Sanjeevani Yojana, AAP promised free healthcare for senior citizens aged 60 and above. The Mahila Samman Yojana offered Rs 2,100 in monthly assistance to women, aimed at empowering women and easing financial burdens.
With the new priests’ salary scheme, Kejriwal aims to broaden AAP’s welfare reach, presenting himself as a leader who prioritizes diverse community needs.
Kejriwal’s Attack On BJP Over Rohingya Voter Allegations
The announcement was accompanied by sharp criticism of the BJP. Kejriwal accused Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri of shielding information about illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya voters allegedly being resettled in Delhi.
“Stop the drama and arrest Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. He has all the data about where Rohingyas have been resettled or rehabilitated. If the BJP knows so much, why aren’t they taking action?” Kejriwal questioned during the press meeting.
The allegations come amidst the BJP’s denial of AAP’s claims regarding “Operation Lotus” and voter manipulation through Rohingya settlements. Minister Puri dismissed these allegations on December 29, stating, “Rohingyas would never support the BJP. These claims are baseless and politically motivated.”
BJP’s Response And Challenges For AAP
As Delhi approaches the February 2024 elections, BJP has criticized AAP’s election promises as opportunistic. The party argues that AAP’s initiatives, while attractive, often lack clear implementation roadmaps.
The BJP has also questioned the feasibility of the Rs 18,000 salary scheme, citing potential strain on Delhi’s finances.
Implications Of The Promise For Delhi Elections
Kejriwal’s strategic focus on welfare promises reflects his effort to solidify AAP’s position amidst stiff competition. The proposed Rs 18,000 monthly salary scheme could resonate strongly with religious communities and economically vulnerable groups.
The announcement is also seen as a counter to BJP’s alleged attempts to polarize voter sentiments. By emphasizing inclusivity and grassroots welfare, AAP seeks to maintain its appeal as a pro-people party.
Path Ahead For AAP And Kejriwal
With the Delhi elections nearing, Kejriwal’s welfare-centric agenda and aggressive stance against BJP are likely to dominate campaign narratives. Whether the Rs 18,000 salary scheme will sway voters in AAP’s favor remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds a significant dimension to the party’s election strategy.
As the political landscape heats up, all eyes are on AAP’s ability to translate its promises into actionable policies and the electorate’s response to its vision for Delhi.