Maharashtra Assembly polls: Ajit Pawar assures support of Dhangar community; pledges to continue ‘Ladki Bahini’ program

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. File | Photo Credit: ANI

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar is visiting 59 villages in Baramati on Friday (November 1, 2024), starting his tour from Malad village, to address important local issues ahead of the upcoming elections.

During his visit, the Deputy CM discussed the Dhangar reservation issue and assured the citizens that the government’s popular “ladki bahini” scheme will continue, stressing that no one will be displaced.

When asked by ANI about getting Nawab Malik’s ticket amid controversy, Mr. Pawar said, “On the 4th, we will get a clear picture of who will be selected or not and in which group. We will get a complete picture by the evening of the 4th.”

On his journey, Mr. Pawar spoke about several issues, including the Dhangar reservation issue and Mahayuti’s “ladki bahini” show. The Deputy Minister confirmed that the government’s “ladki bahini” program, which has been well received by the public, will continue and no one will be turned away.

Mr. Pawar then reiterated the government’s commitment to support the Dhangar community, which has been demanding reservation for a long time. Presently they are included under Nomadic Tribes (NT) or Bhatakya Vimukta category, they have 3.5% reservation.

Additionally, Mr. Pawar spoke about various programs being implemented for the benefit of the Muslim communities and the Dhangar community, including the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Swayam Yojana aimed at uplifting nomadic tribes and the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, which provides financial assistance to farmers. Mr. Pawar focused on the government’s commitment to social welfare, economic development, and inclusive growth.

The Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections are scheduled for November 20, with the results announced on November 23. After this year’s Lok Sabha elections, Baramati has again witnessed competition between the family members of Mr. Pawar, and Ajit Pawar’s nephew, Yugendra Pawar. , competing against the NCP, Sharad Pawar’s party.