Maharashtra: What CM Devendra Fadnavis Said on Bulldozer Action, Ladki Bahin Yojana, Women's Reservation Bill
Maharashtra: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has justified the bulldozer actions being undertaken in Maharashtra, modeled after Uttar Pradesh's "bulldozer culture." He stated that his state is governed by the rule of law, and anyone who fails to abide by the law will face bulldozer action. This action will continue in the future as well.
Maharashtra has witnessed an intensification of "bulldozer action," wherein state authorities utilize heavy machinery to demolish illegal or unauthorized structures. Although this approach has sparked debate, Devendra Fadnavis has defended it, characterizing it as a necessary measure against lawbreakers. He has emphasized that prior to the demolition of any structure, legal protocols and government notification procedures are strictly adhered to.
Addressing an event organized by a Marathi television channel in Mumbai on Monday, the Chief Minister remarked that while he does not wish to single out any specific state, in Maharashtra—where the rule of law prevails—bulldozer action has been initiated against anyone found engaging in wrongdoing.
"We have deployed bulldozers strictly in accordance with the rules, after issuing proper notices. This was not done to target any specific individual. Action will be taken against anyone who acts unlawfully, and the bulldozers will continue to operate," he said.
Ladki Bahin Yojana
Dismissing the Opposition's allegations that the names of 80 lakh women had been removed from the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' Devendra Fadnavis asserted that this is the largest scheme currently operational in any state across the country. "We have not removed anyone from the scheme. However, it was discovered that the beneficiary list included 14,000 men, 5 lakh government employees, 10 lakh income tax payers, and 5 lakh individuals who own private vehicles. We have simply withheld benefits for those found to be ineligible or those who have failed to complete their KYC (Know Your Customer) formalities."
Women's Reservation Bill
Speaking on the issue of women's reservation, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that unless reservation is provided, women's participation in public life will not increase. He noted that, much like in the fields of education and employment, the Modi government had previously attempted to introduce the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam' (Women's Empowerment Bill) to boost women's representation in politics; however, the Opposition prevented it from succeeding. "Political parties are now beginning to realize the necessity of this measure. The bill will be passed, and by the year 2029, women's reservation will definitely become a reality."