Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday announced a new scheme for Delhi women – Rs 1,000 in their accounts every month, with a promise to double it Rs 2,100 if his Aam Aadmi Party wins February’s election.

However, the initial payment of Rs 1,000 cannot be credited till after the election, he said, pointing out “… poll dates will be announced in 10-15 days, so it is not possible to transfer the money now”.

The AAP boss, with Chief Minister Atishi by his side, also hit out at the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party, accusing them of having delayed the scheme’s roll-out – by “conspiring and sending me to jail (in the alleged liquor policy case)” – and having cost Delhi women the steady honorarium.

“I have come to make two big announcements for the people of Delhi… both are for women. I had earlier promised to give Rs 1,000 to every woman. This proposal was passed in a cabinet meeting chaired by Atishiji this morning. Now this scheme has been implemented in Delhi…”

“(But) elections will be announced in 10-15 days, so it is not possible to transfer money to your accounts right now. Also, some women had said Rs 1,000 will not be enough – due to inflation and price rise. Therefore, registration will start from tomorrow for Rs 2100 per month…”

Minutes after the AAP leader announced the pre-poll sop, the BJP’s Delhi unit chief, Virendra Sachdeva, rolled out a caustic response. “Kejriwal should answer promises made for women before the Punjab election. How many women in Punjab have got it in their bank accounts?”

“And now, because Vidhan Sabha elections are coming in Delhi, you give (this) lollipop?”