Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has directed an inquiry into allegations that unauthorized individuals are collecting personal data from Delhi residents under the guise of registering them for the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) proposed welfare scheme, the ‘Mahila Samman Yojana.’
The inquiry directive, issued on December 27, came after complaints from Sandeep Dikshit, Congress’ candidate for the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections. Dikshit alleged that the data collection effort is fraudulent and aims to deceive citizens using promises of financial benefits under a non-existent government scheme.
Complaint Details
Sandeep Dikshit’s complaint, dated December 25, highlighted that AAP workers were allegedly collecting women’s personal details and signatures on forms. This activity was reportedly carried out in the name of the Mahila Samman Yojana, a scheme announced by AAP to provide ₹2,100 monthly to women over 18 years old if the party is re-elected.
The Delhi Women and Child Development (WCD) Department clarified that no such scheme had been notified by the government, terming the activity misleading. Dikshit requested a high-level inquiry into the matter, labeling it a fraud.
LG’s Directive
In response, the LG’s office directed:
- The Chief Secretary to initiate an inquiry via the Divisional Commissioner regarding the alleged data collection by non-government individuals.
- The Commissioner of Police to instruct officers to act against breaches of privacy by unauthorized camps.
- District-level police officers (DCPs) to take legal action against private individuals organizing fraudulent registration camps.
The LG also recommended informing the Election Commission of India about the matter through the Chief Electoral Office, Delhi.
AAP’s Announcement of Schemes
On December 22, AAP convenor Arvind Kejriwal announced the registration launch for the ‘Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana’ and the ‘Sanjeevani Yojana,’ promising door-to-door assistance for beneficiaries. Kejriwal emphasized that Delhi voter ID cards were mandatory for registration.
Concerns Raised
The allegations highlight the potential misuse of citizen data for political purposes, raising concerns about privacy violations during the pre-election period. The outcome of the inquiry will be closely watched as it could impact the political landscape ahead of the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.