Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut strongly criticized Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s comments regarding the funding of welfare schemes through increased liquor sales. Raut expressed concerns about the potential social impact of such policies, calling them detrimental to Maharashtra’s values and families.
Raut said that Ajit Pawar’s suggestion to raise state revenue by increasing liquor shop licenses and reducing dry days could create societal problems. He alleged that such policies would encourage alcohol consumption and negatively affect families, particularly targeting women.
Sanjay Raut criticizes Ladki Bahin Yojna
Referring to Ladki Bahin Yojana, Sanjay Raut said, “They are going to make the brothers and husbands of the beloved sisters drunk to give Rs 1,500 to the beloved sisters.” He criticized the move as a way to harm households under the guise of financial assistance.
Raut further argued that delivering liquor to homes, a concept proposed in some states, would worsen the situation. “This is a disgrace for Maharashtra. Leaders like Ajit Pawar should rethink such policies,” he added, urging Pawar to uphold the values of Maharashtra’s icons like Yashwantrao Chavan, Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar.
Highlighting the state’s financial challenges, Raut accused the government of making vote-driven decisions without proper planning. “Money was distributed for votes before the elections, and now they are setting criteria to reduce the burden,” he said.
He also noted that providing Rs 1,500 under welfare schemes wouldn’t address the rising cost of living, with essential items like garlic reaching Rs 400 per kilogram. “When a sister goes to the market with Rs 1,500, she returns with an empty bag,” Raut said.
What Sanjay Raut said about Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Amid his criticism of Pawar, Raut praised former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, calling him a leader who understood “Rajdharma” and was guided by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s principles. Raut reminded the public of Vajpayee’s contributions and his role in forming alliances, including between the Shiv Sena and BJP.
Raut urged leaders to prioritize the welfare of people without compromising social values and family structures.
