Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has unveiled a new welfare scheme for religious leaders in the capital. Under this initiative, priests working in temples and gurdwaras will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 18,000. The announcement, made by Kejriwal on December 30, 2024, aims to support the religious community, ensuring financial stability for priests who often face irregular income.
Addressing the media, Kejriwal stated that the scheme is a recognition of the invaluable role priests play in the spiritual and social lives of the people. "Priests are not just religious figures; they are integral to the social fabric of our communities. They perform vital duties that help in maintaining peace and harmony, and it is only fair that their work is acknowledged and supported," said Kejriwal.
This move is part of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's broader commitment to improving the welfare of all sections of society, particularly those who contribute to community-building efforts. The scheme will cover priests in temples and gurdwaras across Delhi, benefiting thousands of religious leaders.
The decision has been welcomed by various religious organizations, which have expressed appreciation for the initiative. "This is a much-needed gesture for our priests, who often do not have a stable source of income," said a representative from a prominent gurdwara in Delhi.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the feasibility of implementing the scheme in the long term, suggesting that the funds could be better used to address broader social issues. Nonetheless, the move has sparked a debate about the role of government in supporting religious and spiritual figures.
Kejriwal further mentioned that this initiative is part of a series of welfare programs designed to ensure the well-being of Delhi's citizens. The government has also outlined plans to expand such support to other religious institutions and sectors in the future.
As the implementation of the scheme begins, it will be closely watched to assess its impact on the religious community and the political landscape of Delhi.
