In a controversial statement made during a poll rally in Sailana, Kantilal Bhuria, the Congress candidate from Ratlam Lok Sabha constituency and former Union minister, claimed that men with two wives could stand to gain Rs 2 lakh under his party’s Mahalaxmi scheme, which pledges to provide Rs 1 lakh annually to poor women. Bhuria’s statement has elicited strong reactions from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has urged the Election Commission of India to take action against him.
Bhuria emphasized that the Congress manifesto promises Rs 1 lakh annually to every woman, which would be deposited directly into her bank account. He added that individuals with two wives would benefit from this scheme, implying that both wives would receive financial aid totalling Rs 2 lakh. This statement was echoed by Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Jitu Patwari, who described it as a “terrific announcement.”
BJP’s reaction to Kantilal Bhuria’s statement
The BJP swiftly reacted to Kantilal Bhuria’s statement, with MP BJP spokesperson Narendra Saluja sharing the clip of Bhuria’s remarks on social media and urging the Election Commission to take strict action. Bhuria’s address also included accusations against the Prime Minister, alleging disrespect towards tribals and highlighting an incident where a tribal individual was reportedly urinated upon by a BJP leader in Sidhi.
Kantilal Bhuria, a seasoned politician who previously served as Union minister for tribal affairs under the UPA government, is contesting the Ratlam Lok Sabha seat once again in 2024 on a Congress ticket. His opponent is Anita Chauhan, the wife of MP forest minister Nagar Singh Chauhan, representing the BJP. Ratlam constituency is scheduled to vote in the fourth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 13.
Bhuria’s statement has stirred controversy and raised questions about the implementation and implications of the Congress party’s welfare schemes, particularly concerning family structures and financial assistance distribution.
(Excerpts taken from Hindustan Times)
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