Delhi Assembly Election 2025 | Focus on women-centric schemes dominates poll campaign amid sustainability concerns

With women accounting for nearly half of Delhi's electorate, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Congress have prioritised women-focused promises in their campaigns.

New Delhi: Ahead of Delhi Assembly Elections, experts have highlighted the growing focus on women-centric schemes signalling a deeper acknowledgment of women's critical role in shaping electoral outcomes.

However, experts have also raised concerns about the sustainability and long-term consequences of relying on populist measures to secure their support.

With women accounting for nearly half of Delhi's electorate, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Congress have prioritized women-focused promises in their campaigns.

The BJP's Mahila Samridhi Yojana pledges Rs 2,500 per month to women voters, along with a Rs 21,000 maternity benefit and a Rs 500 subsidy on LPG cylinders.

Similarly, AAP has promised Rs 2,100 per month for women, while Congress has floated its 'Pyari Didi Yojana' with Rs 2,500 monthly cash transfers.

While these announcements align with a broader trend in Indian politics, reflected in schemes like Madhya Pradesh's 'Ladli Behna Yojana' and Maharashtra's 'Ladki Bahin Scheme', critics have question the feasibility of such measures. Jagdeep Chhokar, founder of poll rights body the Association for Democratic Reforms, expressed skepticism about the efficacy of these schemes.

"Freebies only offer short-term relief. Teaching people skills to become self-reliant should be the focus," he said, adding that voters must be made aware of the cost of these benefits, which ultimately come from public funds.

"Even the poorest pay taxes indirectly, whether through GST on essential items or services," he noted.

Brinda Karat, CPI(M) leader and activist, views these promises as a double-edged sword.

"Such schemes reflect the growing assertion of women as independent citizens, but they often reduce women to mere beneficiaries rather than rights holders," she said.

While welcoming cash transfers as recognition of women's unpaid labour contributing nearly 7 per cent to India's GDP, she emphasized that the narrative must shift toward empowering women with rights, not just sops.

Political analysts argue that these promises, though populist, could transform women into more independent voters.

Professor Mohammad Aftab Alam of Aligarh Muslim University highlighted how such schemes can disrupt traditional voting patterns.

"Women voters often rely on male family members for political decisions. Targeted welfare measures can empower them to make independent choices," he said.

Sushila Ramaswamy, a professor at Jesus and Mary College, pointed out the flexibility and dignity offered by cash transfers.

"Unlike material goods, cash allows women to make their own decisions, boosting their autonomy. This has proven to be a game-changer, especially for women from weaker sections," she said, adding that parties in power have a distinct advantage in delivering these benefits before elections building voter trust.

Women voters across economic strata have expressed varied perspectives on these schemes.

Shanti Devi, a vegetable vendor from Haiderpur, called cash assistance transformative.

"It can help pay school fees or rent during tough times. It's better than goods because I can choose what I need most," she said.

Seema Singh, a domestic worker from Mayur Vihar, agreed, citing existing benefits like free bus travel as significant savings. "If they add cash transfers, it will give me more security," she said.

However, middle-class women have different priorities.

"These schemes are helpful for the poor, but what about better roads, improved infrastructure, and quality education?" asked Pooja Verma, a schoolteacher in Sarita Vihar.

For Anjali Kumari, a beautician in Madanpur Khadar, the need for economic opportunities outweighs short-term benefits.

"The schemes are helpful, but they won't lift us out of poverty. We need better jobs and access to loans," she said.

The growing focus on women-centric welfare schemes underscores their electoral importance, but experts warn of the need for sustainable development measures.

As Delhi votes on February 5, the effectiveness of these promises will not only be tested at the ballot box but also in the broader discourse on women's empowerment.

Delhi Assembly Election 2025 | The first of two state assembly polls this year sees a three-way contest between AAP, Congress, and BJP in the nation's capital. AAP decided to contest the polls alone, causing rumours of a rift in I.N.D.I.A. BJP, meanwhile, is hoping the liquor excise policy scam and pollution in Delhi will give the saffron party an edge over AAP. Kejriwal, on the other hand, has different plans with his demand for reservations for Delhi Jats. Congress will also be looking to make its presence felt and has not held back from attacking its own alliance partner. Check live updates and track the latest coverage, live news, in-depth opinions, and analyses only on Deccan Herald.

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