Amid ongoing controversy over the Mahila Samman scheme, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal announced a new initiative on Monday, offering a monthly honorarium of ₹18,000 to Hindu temple priests and Sikh gurdwara granthis. The scheme, named the Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, is set to begin registration on Tuesday, marking what Kejriwal described as a “first-of-its-kind” initiative in the country.
At a press conference, Kejriwal elaborated on the significance of the scheme, stating, “The priestly class has carried forward our rituals from generation to generation without much attention to their own families or needs. This initiative aims to recognize their invaluable contributions and provide them financial support.”
The scheme's registration will officially kick off following Kejriwal’s visit to the Hanuman Temple in Connaught Place.
The announcement comes amidst backlash over the recently launched Mahila Samman scheme, which promised a stipend of ₹2,100 per month to unemployed women. The scheme sparked confusion after the Delhi government’s Women and Child Development (WCD) department publicly declared it “non-existent” and cautioned residents against sharing personal data.
AAP alleged that BJP-led pressure on bureaucrats led to the controversy, asserting that action would be taken against those involved. The BJP, however, accused AAP of misleading the public and claimed the fiasco highlighted discrepancies within the Delhi government.
This new scheme targeting Hindu and Sikh clergy underscores AAP’s efforts to broaden its appeal among religious communities. However, it may face scrutiny from opposition parties, particularly given the Mahila Samman controversy and the question of funding such initiatives.
The announcement reflects a strategic pivot by AAP to address public grievances while countering political opposition in the capital.
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