The State Election Commission (SEC) has put a halt to advance payments under Maharashtra’s ‘Ladli Bahen’ scheme after complaints from Opposition parties, citing the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) ahead of the municipal corporation elections.
The move comes amid media reports claiming the state government planned to release ₹3,000 each for the December and January installments by January 14, projecting it as a Makar Sankranti gift. Opposition parties flagged the timing as potentially influencing voters.
Seeking clarity, the SEC asked the Chief Secretary to explain the government’s position on the scheme. In response, the Chief Secretary stated that welfare schemes announced before the election schedule are permitted to continue during the MCC period, as per a consolidated SEC order issued on November 4, 2025.
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However, the Election Commission drew a sharp line: while regular, pre-scheduled benefits under the Ladli Bahen scheme may continue, advance disbursements are not permitted. The SEC also directed that no new beneficiaries should be added until the election process concludes.
Congress Objects to Timing
The Congress party formally approached the Election Commission, arguing that releasing funds close to polling day could sway the electorate. The party pointed out that nearly one crore women beneficiaries are slated to receive installments just days before voting on January 15.
While reiterating that it does not oppose the Ladli Bahen scheme itself, Congress demanded that the payments be deferred until after the elections. The party termed the proposed advance release of funds as “a form of government bribery” and an attempt to secure electoral advantage.
