Pune: In a significant announcement, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar assured that differently-abled individuals in Maharashtra would receive a 50% exemption on property tax, similar to the benefit provided to ex-servicemen. He directed the municipal corporations to submit a proposal to the state government for Cabinet approval.

Pawar made this statement during the inauguration of the three-day ‘Purple Jallosh’ festival organized by the Divyang Bhavan Foundation of the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation at the Auto Cluster in Chinchwad. The event was attended by prominent officials, including MLAs Anna Bansode, Amit Gorkhe, and Uma Khapre, along with Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh and PMRDA Commissioner Yogesh Mhase.

Special Fund Allocation for Differently-Abled Welfare

Ajit Pawar announced that a specific portion of the district’s annual planning fund would be allocated for the welfare of differently-abled individuals, ensuring adequate resources for their development. "Differently-abled individuals have immense potential. With proper support, they can reach great heights. Our focus is to provide them with the facilities, training, and opportunities to become self-reliant," he said.

He also emphasized improvements in disability certification facilities, announcing that Sassoon Hospital and sub-district hospitals in Pune would soon provide certification services, alongside YCM Hospital.

Rehabilitation of Differently-Abled Vendors

Pawar urged municipal corporations in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad to avoid taking action against differently-abled street vendors during anti-encroachment drives. "They must be provided alternative spaces for livelihood. However, differently-abled vendors should also ensure their stalls do not create chaos in the city," he added.

Comment on Law and Order

On a separate note, Pawar addressed the ongoing investigation into the assault on actor Saif Ali Khan. He confirmed that the assailant has been identified, and an inquiry is underway to determine the motive. He also emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the state, urging investigating agencies like CID and SIT to remain unbiased.