Sun Dec 14 17:01:08 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:

Madhya Pradesh Minister Faces Backlash Over Comments on Women’s Scheme

BHOPAL, Madhya Pradesh – December 14, 2025 – Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Minister Vijay Shah is embroiled in a fresh controversy after remarks he made regarding the state government’s Ladli Behna Scheme went viral. The opposition Congress party is demanding his dismissal, accusing him of insulting women beneficiaries.

During a meeting in Ratlam on Saturday, December 13th, Mr. Shah, Minister for Tribal Affairs and Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief and Rehabilitation, directed officials to organize a special ceremony where beneficiary women would felicitate Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. He reportedly suggested offering an incentive of ₹250 in their monthly allowance to those who attend, with a plan to identify and potentially withhold benefits from those whose Aadhaar is not linked.

State Congress President Jitu Patwari condemned the Minister’s remarks, labeling them an “insult” to the women beneficiaries. Patwari also referenced Mr. Shah’s earlier controversy involving derogatory remarks made against Colonel Sofia Qureshi, calling the two incidents proof of the BJP’s “frustrated and anti-woman mentality.” He called on Prime Minister Modi to act.

Mr. Shah has issued a clarification through PTI, claiming his statement was “twisted and misrepresented.” He asserted that the government is dedicated to women’s empowerment and that his intention was to ensure only eligible women receive the scheme’s benefits, addressing concerns that ineligible women were also receiving the benefits.

This is not the first time Mr. Shah has faced public criticism. Earlier this year, he was booked on the direction of the Madhya Pradesh High Court for remarks against Colonel Qureshi. The Supreme Court has also formed a Special Investigating Team (SIT) to investigate that matter. The SIT is yet to submit its final report.

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