BJP, Congress clash over public funds for awards in Jaipur

The IIFA Awards 2025 held in Jaipur on March 8-9 have become a flashpoint between the ruling BJP and opposition Congress. Opposition leader Tikaram Jully accused the state government of spending Rs 100 crore of public funds on the event, while development projects for temples like Khatu Shyam ji and Govind Dev temple were stalled. Jully also raised questions about the absence of several A-list film stars from the event, including Madhuri Dixit, and caused a stir by calling her not an A-list actor. He later clarified that he was referring to the changing dynamics of the industry.

The Congress now demands transparency on how the money was allocated and spent. Meanwhile, BJP leaders defend the expenditure, arguing that the IIFA Awards boosted Rajasthan's tourism and created new employment opportunities. State BJP president Madan Rathore dismissed the allegations, urging Congress to account for the funds spent during their tenure on similar events.