Major Changes Begin in Bengal: Religion-Based Aid Schemes Ended, ₹3000 Support for Women; Politics Intensifies Over Park Circus Controversy

The second cabinet decisions of the new government in West Bengal have intensified both the political atmosphere and social discussions in the state. On one hand, the government has decided to launch the new ‘Annapurna Scheme’ for women and discontinue religion-based financial assistance schemes. On the other hand, political reactions have grown sharper over protests and alleged stone-pelting incidents in Kolkata’s Park Circus area.

The government announced that from June 1, eligible women will receive ₹3000 per month under the Annapurna Scheme. Women already receiving benefits under the Lakshmi Bhandar Scheme will reportedly be included automatically, while a separate portal will be launched for other eligible applicants.

During the same cabinet meeting, the government also decided to discontinue financial assistance provided to imams, muezzins, and priests under religion-based categories. Reports also suggest that some scholarship schemes related to minority students may be reviewed. According to the government, future welfare programs will now be implemented on the basis of economic and social need rather than religion.

Meanwhile, the political atmosphere intensified further after alleged stone-pelting incidents targeting police during protests in Kolkata’s Park Circus area. Reacting to the incident, Suvendu Adhikari stated that “Kashmir-like stone pelting” would not be tolerated in the state and called for stricter law enforcement measures.

Following his statement, a fresh political confrontation began between the ruling party and the opposition, with both sides accusing each other over the issue.

Political analysts believe that the new government wants to send a strong message of administrative and social policy changes from the very beginning. However, opposition parties are viewing these decisions as part of political polarization. The impact of these developments is expected to influence both the political climate and social atmosphere in West Bengal in the coming months.

Key Highlights

  • Bengal cabinet ends religion-based assistance schemes

  • ₹3000 Annapurna Scheme for women to begin from June 1

  • Political tensions rise after Park Circus protest controversy