Sharad Pawar Criticises Mahayuti Government for Alarming Rise in Crimes Against Women in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra government is introducing initiatives like the Ladki Bahin Yojana, yet crimes against women continue to rise, according to NCP SP leader Sharad Pawar. Speaking at a rally in Hadapsar for candidate Prashant Jagtap, Pawar highlighted that 67,381 harassment complaints by women have been filed in the last two years. This alarming situation persists in Maharashtra, a state known for its historical figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Mahatma Phule.

Under the current BJP-led administration, five complaints related to crimes against women are lodged every hour. The government has also reported that 64,000 women and girls are missing across the state. Pawar questioned if this scenario is appropriate for a state like Maharashtra, expressing concern over the apparent indifference of those in power.

Rising Concerns Over Women's Safety

In Nagpur alone, which is the home district of Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, around 13,000 girls are reportedly missing. Fadnavis also holds the home portfolio in the Eknath Shinde government. Pawar questioned whether such leadership can be trusted with governing the state when so many girls are missing from the home minister's own city.

Pawar criticised the government for launching schemes aimed at supporting women while failing to address increasing atrocities against them. He stated that such a situation is unacceptable for Maharashtra. The contrast between policy announcements and ground realities raises serious concerns about women's safety in the state.

Farmers' Distress Under Current Government

Pawar also addressed issues faced by farmers in Maharashtra. He revealed that approximately 20,000 farmers have committed suicide during the current government's tenure. In just the past six months, 1,267 farmers have taken their own lives. Although farmer suicides occur nationwide, Maharashtra reportedly has the highest numbers.

The distress among farmers is a significant issue that needs urgent attention from authorities. Pawar's remarks highlight a critical need for effective measures to support both women and farmers in Maharashtra. The state's leadership must prioritise addressing these pressing challenges to ensure safety and well-being for all its citizens.