The spotlight on women-centric schemes has emerged as a defining feature of the ongoing Delhi Assembly election campaign, signalling a growing recognition of women's crucial role in shaping electoral outcomes.
However, concerns about the sustainability and long-term impact of such populist measures have been raised by experts and activists alike.
With women constituting nearly half of Delhi's electorate, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and Congress have prioritised welfare promises aimed at women voters.
The BJP’s Mahila Samridhi Yojana, for instance, pledges a monthly allowance of ₹2,500, a ₹21,000 maternity benefit, and a ₹500 subsidy on LPG cylinders.
Similarly, the AAP has promised ₹2,100 per month for women, while the Congress has floated its Pyari Didi Yojana, promising ₹2,500 in monthly cash transfers.
These proposals align with a broader trend seen across India, with schemes like Madhya Pradesh’s Ladli Behna Yojana and Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin Scheme serving as precedents.
Experts, however, remain sceptical about the viability of these measures. Jagdeep Chhokar, founder of the poll rights organisation Association for Democratic Reforms, questioned their long-term efficacy.
“Freebies only offer short-term relief. Teaching people skills to become self-reliant should be the focus,” he said.
Chhokar also emphasised the need for transparency regarding the cost of such schemes, which are funded through public resources. “Even the poorest pay taxes indirectly, whether through GST on essential items or services,” he noted.
Brinda Karat, CPI(M) leader and activist, regarded the schemes 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 remarked.
While welcoming cash transfers as an acknowledgment of women’s unpaid labour contributing to nearly 7 per cent of India’s GDP, Karat stressed the need to shift the narrative towards empowering women with rights instead of sops.
Populism versus empowerment
Political analysts contend that such populist measures have the potential to transform women into more independent voters.
Professor Mohammad Aftab Alam of Aligarh Muslim University observed, “Women voters often rely on male family members for political decisions. Targeted welfare measures can empower them to make independent choices.”
Professor Sushila Ramaswamy of Jesus and Mary College highlighted the advantages of cash transfers over material benefits.
“Unlike 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.
Ramaswamy also noted that incumbent parties have an advantage in delivering such benefits before elections, thereby building voter trust.
Diverse perspectives among women
The response from women voters has been varied. Shanti Devi, a vegetable vendor from Haiderpur, described cash assistance as 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, shared similar sentiments, praising existing measures like free bus travel and expressing optimism about potential cash transfers. “If they add cash transfers, it will give me more security,” she said.
However, middle-class women have expressed different priorities. Pooja Verma, a schoolteacher in Sarita Vihar, said, “These schemes are helpful for the poor, but what about better roads, improved infrastructure, and quality education?”
Anjali Kumari, a beautician from Madanpur Khadar, underscored the need for economic opportunities. “The schemes are helpful, but they won’t lift us out of poverty. We need better jobs and access to loans,” she said.
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