Former Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Chief Arvind Kejriwal announced the ‘Pujari, Granthi Samman Yojana’, a welfare scheme promising an honorarium of ₹18,000 per month to temple priests and Gurudwara granthis in Delhi.
This initiative, according to Kejriwal, is the first of its kind in the country and will be implemented if AAP wins the upcoming 2025 Delhi Assembly elections.
Key Highlights of the Scheme:
- ₹18,000 honorarium for temple priests and Gurudwara granthis.
- Aims to recognize the contributions of religious leaders who have traditionally guided and supported communities.
- Part of AAP’s broader welfare initiatives, including improved healthcare, education, and public transportation.
Kejriwal’s Remarks:
“The priestly class has served generations, yet their families have often been neglected. This scheme will ensure that they receive the recognition and support they deserve. We hope BJP and Congress learn from this initiative and implement similar schemes in their states,” said Kejriwal.
He also highlighted AAP’s track record of implementing innovative welfare programs in Delhi, such as:
- Free bus travel for women
- Mahila Samman Yojana
- Sanjeevani Yojana
Kejriwal accused the BJP of attempting to obstruct these initiatives through legal and administrative hurdles.
Protests Over Pending Salaries for Imams
Meanwhile, protests by Delhi Waqf Board Imams have drawn attention to the government’s delay in releasing their salaries, pending for 17 months.
Imam Association Chairman Sajid Rashidi criticized the inaction despite repeated meetings with government officials, including Kejriwal and other senior leaders.
“If our salaries are not sanctioned, we will continue protesting outside Kejriwal’s residence,” stated Rashidi.
This dual narrative — announcing new welfare schemes while facing criticism over pending commitments — has sparked varied responses ahead of the elections.
Conclusion:
As AAP positions itself for a fresh mandate in 2025, the ‘Pujari, Granthi Samman Yojana’ underscores its focus on inclusive welfare. However, the party faces challenges in addressing existing grievances like those of the Delhi Waqf Board imams.
The success of this strategy remains to be seen as Delhi prepares for another politically charged electoral season.