AAP and Congress Clash in Punjab Assembly Over Women’s Allowance Scheme

A heated political confrontation erupted in the Punjab Legislative Assembly after the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced a new monthly financial assistance scheme for women. The Opposition Indian National Congress questioned the timing and funding of the initiative, leading to a sharp debate during the ongoing Budget Session.

The dispute intensified as leaders from both sides accused each other of disrespecting women while discussing the scheme.

Women’s Allowance Announced on International Women’s Day

The Punjab government unveiled the welfare scheme on March 8, International Women’s Day, promising direct financial assistance to women across the state.

Under the proposal:

• Rs 1,000 per month will be provided to women in general categories.

• Rs 1,500 per month will be provided to women belonging to Scheduled Caste communities.

The state government has reportedly allocated Rs 9,300 crore in the 2026–27 state budget to fund the initiative.

Officials said the scheme is part of a broader effort to strengthen social welfare and support women’s financial independence.

Congress Questions Delay and Funding

Opposition leaders from the Congress party criticised the government for launching the scheme several years after coming to power.

They argued that the ruling party had earlier promised such financial assistance during election campaigns and questioned why the plan was introduced only now.

Congress leaders also demanded clarity on the long-term financial sustainability of the programme, raising concerns about how the large budget allocation would be managed.

Assembly Debate Turns Heated

The debate intensified after remarks made during the discussion sparked controversy inside the Assembly.

Congress MLA Sukhpal Singh Khaira made comments that triggered objections from the ruling party, with AAP leaders accusing him of making remarks that were disrespectful to women.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann also addressed the issue during his speech, defending the scheme and criticising the opposition’s stance.

Political Accusations From Both Sides

As the exchange continued, both AAP and Congress accused each other of politicising the issue of women’s welfare.

AAP leaders argued that the scheme represents a major step toward empowering women financially.

Congress members, however, maintained that the government should provide greater transparency regarding funding and implementation.

Women’s Welfare Becomes Political Issue

The controversy highlights how welfare schemes often become key political issues during legislative sessions.

Programs aimed at providing financial support to citizens frequently draw scrutiny from opposition parties, particularly regarding funding sources and delivery mechanisms.

Despite the heated debate, the women’s allowance programme is expected to remain a central part of the Punjab government’s policy agenda.

Ongoing Budget Session

The dispute unfolded during the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Budget Session, where multiple economic and social welfare initiatives are being discussed.

Political observers say the debate over the women’s allowance scheme reflects the broader competition between political parties ahead of future electoral contests in the state.