In an effort to compete with the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ahead of the Delhi assembly elections, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is reportedly planning to introduce a series of voter-friendly initiatives. These may include free electricity of up to 300 units, free piped water, and a Ladli Behna-like scheme targeted at women voters, according to sources.
Additionally, the BJP is considering providing free electricity of up to 500 units to religious places, such as temples and gurdwaras.
BJP’s Strategic Moves
The proposed Ladli Behna-like scheme could prove to be a significant draw, given the success of similar cash handout policies in recent BJP victories in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Women voters have become a decisive constituency in recent years, prompting major parties to roll out schemes aimed at empowering them financially.
For the AAP, seeking a third consecutive term, the Mahila Samman Yojana takes center stage. The party has pledged to increase the monthly financial assistance for women from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,100. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal has also announced the Sanjeevani Yojana, which promises free healthcare for residents over 60 years old.
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The AAP has further strengthened its appeal to autorickshaw drivers, a critical voter base, by promising:
- Life and accident insurance worth Rs 15 lakh.
- Financial assistance of Rs 1 lakh for their daughters’ weddings.
- A uniform allowance of Rs 2,500, to be disbursed twice a year.
AAP’s Flagship Policies
Over the last decade, AAP’s hallmark initiatives, such as free electricity of up to 200 units and free bus rides for women, have played a pivotal role in its governance model. These schemes have helped cement the party’s popularity among lower and middle-income groups.
Congress Enters the Fray
The Congress, still working to regain its footing in Delhi, has introduced the Pyari Didi Yojana, promising Rs 2,500 per month to eligible women beneficiaries. However, the party has yet to launch an aggressive campaign to connect with voters on the ground.
As women emerge as a significant voting bloc, political parties are tailoring their manifestos to address their needs directly. From the BJP’s proposed Ladli Behna-like scheme to AAP’s Mahila Samman Yojana and Congress’s Pyari Didi Yojana, women voters remain the focal point in the Delhi elections.
The BJP faces the task of breaking AAP’s stronghold in Delhi, where the ruling party has built a reputation for delivering on promises of social welfare. The introduction of free electricity and water, along with women-centric initiatives, could be pivotal in swaying voters.
