Shaadi Bhagya scheme likely for all

The State government is planning to extend the Shaadi Bhagya scheme for women from all economically weaker sections of society after its earlier decision to restrict the benefits to Muslim brides attracted widespread criticism from the Opposition.

The government had announced Rs. 50,000 to poor girls belonging to the Muslim community at the time of their marriage.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Tuesday said that the government was considering extending the scheme to all sections living below the poverty line.

“The scheme will not be limited only to Muslims; the government is planning to extend it to all sections of society living below the poverty line,” Mr. Siddaramaiah told presspersons during the Janata Darshan at his official residence here.

Muslims too opposed it

A section of Muslim leaders within the Congress has also opposed the scheme on the grounds that it was not in consonance with the tenets of Islam and that it would unnecessarily draw “negative attention” of other communities.

On the proposed draft of the anti-superstition bill, the Chief Minister said that a decision on it would be taken only after discussing its merits and demerits. The issue would be discussed in the party before taking any decision.

“I will also discuss the issue with KPCC president G. Parameshwara,” Mr. Siddaramaiah said.

The KPCC chief on Monday said the government had not consulted the party on the issue.