Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has found himself at the center of a social media storm after a video went viral showing him distributing scholarship cheques worth a mere ₹300 to students. The incident, which took place during the launch of the Sanskrit Scholarship Scheme in Varanasi, has sparked widespread criticism and accusations of public funds being misused for publicity purposes.
The video, shared widely on X (formerly Twitter), captured the CM handing over the cheques to students, with many users highlighting the stark contrast between the value of the cheques and the elaborate event organized for their distribution. One user pointed out that the cost of printing the cheques was likely more than the amount they represented, while others expressed outrage at the perceived waste of public funds.
“Yogi Adityanath is giving a huge cheque of ₹ 300 to the students. The cost of printing the cheques would have been more than this. Public money is being wasted in publicity. What a Downfall by BJ party,” wrote one user. Another comment echoed this sentiment, stating: “The Paper of this Cheque is more valuable than the prize of the competition. At least respect the post of CM, Yogi Ji.”
The controversy extends beyond the value of the scholarships themselves. Many criticized the presence of multiple ministers at the event, questioning their involvement in handing out such small amounts. “Fun is, there are four ministers laying their hands on ₹ 300/- cheque for photo-up. Shameless,” one user commented.
Congress spokesperson Dr. Shama Mohamed also joined the chorus of criticism, stating, “Only BJP can do this! Cheques of ₹ 300 were distributed as scholarships to students by UP CM Yogi Adityanath. It seems they spent more on printing the cheques than their actual value.”
Despite the outcry, the scholarship scheme has been touted as a significant initiative by the government. The scheme, launched at the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, aims to provide scholarships to all students of Sanskrit across the state, removing the previous restrictions on age and eligibility. The CM also announced plans to revitalize residential Gurukul-style Sanskrit schools in Uttar Pradesh.
While the CM emphasized the importance of the scholarship scheme and the need for all students to open bank accounts for direct and secure transfer of funds, the optics of the event have left many questioning the priorities of the government. The controversy raises concerns about the effectiveness of the scheme and the potential for wasteful spending on publicity, rather than providing meaningful financial support to students.
