Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024: Will This New Rs 50 Crore Scheme Win Back Brahmin Voters?

With the state assembly elections approaching, the government has announced the formation of the Parshuram Financial Development Corporation, aimed at supporting students from the Brahmin community. The new body, which will be based in Pune, will have a fund of Rs 50 crore to assist underprivileged Brahmin students, according to Hindustan Times (HT). Currently, Brahmin students only receive aid under the economically weaker section (EWS) quota.

In recent years, various social upliftment schemes have been introduced for Marathas, OBCs, and minorities. However, underprivileged members of the Brahmin community have expressed feelings of being left out and have raised their concerns.

The Brahmin community has been a consistent supporter of the BJP. However, following the death of Mukta Tilak, a prominent leader, in the Kasba by-election last year, the community was disappointed when the BJP chose Hemant Rasane over a Brahmin candidate. As a result, the party lost the seat to Congress candidate Ravindra Dhangekar after holding it for 28 years.

Parag Alvani, BJP MLA from Vile Parle and a member of the Karhade Brahmin community, welcomed the move. "Those who cannot afford education must get support," he said in HT, adding that scholarships alone are insufficient. He praised the new corporation as a good initiative for deserving Brahmin students. Similarly, Atul Bhatkhalkar, MLA from Kandivali East, expressed his approval, stating that the government's focus on all communities demonstrated its good intentions.

However, not everyone is convinced. Anand Dave, from the Brahman Mahasangh, expressed scepticism, pointing out that the model code of conduct for the elections will soon be enforced, which may delay the corporation's formation. He mentioned that similar announcements have been made in the past without being followed through.

"The government should not just make promises-it must release funds and appoint officials immediately," he said in HT. Dave emphasised that every community has its share of underprivileged members and hopes this move isn't just an "election ruse" like the Rs 15 lakh deposit promise made by the BJP in 2014.