Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal unveiled the ‘Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana’ on Monday, a new initiative aimed at providing a monthly honorarium of approximately Rs 18,000 to temple priests and Gurudwara granthis. This announcement comes as Delhi prepares for its upcoming Assembly elections, slated for early 2025.
The ‘Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana’ was introduced as a response to ongoing debates surrounding AAP's flagship ‘Mahila Samman Yojana,’ a scheme designed to offer eligible women a monthly allowance of Rs 2,100. The latter has been at the center of controversy following allegations raised by Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit.
Details of the ‘Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana’
In a press conference, Kejriwal emphasized that the new scheme aims to honor the religious leaders who have long upheld the traditions of their respective communities. “This is the first time in the country that priests and granthis will receive an honorarium. These individuals have dedicated their lives to carrying forward religious rituals without receiving proper recognition or financial support,” he stated.
Kejriwal further highlighted the significance of this initiative, noting that it was the first time such a scheme would be implemented in India, recognizing the contributions of temple priests and Gurudwara granthis.
Reactions to the Announcement
Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia expressed gratitude for the scheme, tweeting, “When the Aam Aadmi Party government is formed, priests and granthis will receive their rightful honorarium of Rs 18,000 per month. Kejriwal has always prioritized the respect and support for Delhi's cultural and religious institutions.”
Controversy Over ‘Mahila Samman Yojana’
The announcement comes amid controversy surrounding the ‘Mahila Samman Yojana,’ with Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena ordering a probe into the scheme. Allegations include fraudulent collection of personal data, the presence of Punjab intelligence officers near Congress candidates' homes, and concerns over cash transfers from Punjab to Delhi.
Despite these claims, Kejriwal defended the scheme, accusing the BJP of attempting to disrupt the registration process. "First, they sent their goons, then the police dismantled our registration camps. Now, they’ve launched a sham investigation," he said, asserting that the initiative was merely a campaign promise made by AAP to support women in the city.
The row over the ‘Mahila Samman Yojana’ has become a point of contention in the lead-up to the Delhi Assembly elections, with AAP maintaining its position that the scheme is a genuine effort to empower women, while the opposition continues to challenge its legitimacy.
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