The Trinamool Congress's (TMC) Lakshmir Bhandar scheme has been a game-changer in West Bengal elections. Launched by Mamata Banerjee, the scheme provides financial help to women from economically weaker sections. With the BJP promising to raise the amount to ₹3,000 per month under the 'Matri Shakti Vandan Yojana', will women voters shift towards the BJP? We spoke to several voters, including tea plantation workers, to understand their views on the scheme and the BJP's promise.
While most women we spoke to appreciated the scheme, they expressed concerns about the BJP's promise. 'We trust Mamata because she has already given it. She has shown it in action. We do not trust the BJP. Even if they say ₹3,000, what if they do not give it at all?' said one woman.
The BJP's promise of a higher amount may not be enough to sway women voters away from the TMC, especially in north Bengal where the party has been trying to strengthen its hold. The TMC's claims of a ban on non-vegetarian food, including fish and eggs, have also raised concerns among residents. 'We have our own way of life,' said a shopkeeper in Siliguri. 'Fish and similar items will not be allowed. But it will not work in Bengal.'
