In a move that has stirred political controversy, the Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) has intervened to halt the disbursement of the January installment of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, a flagship scheme of the state government, just ahead of municipal elections. The SEC's decision, announced on Monday, January 12, 2026, was prompted by concerns over potential violations of the model code of conduct, which aims to ensure fair and unbiased elections.
The issue arose after media reports surfaced suggesting that beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin Yojana would receive a combined sum of ₹3,000, covering both the December and January installments, before Makar Sankranti on January 14. This led to complaints, with critics arguing that the advanced disbursement could be construed as an attempt to sway voters in the upcoming municipal elections scheduled for January 15. BJP leader and minister Gitish Mahajan had previously referred to the payment as a "special gift" from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana provides eligible women with a monthly assistance of ₹1,500. It is widely acknowledged as a key factor in the Mahayuti alliance's victory in the 2024 State Assembly elections. Given the scheme's popularity and potential impact on voters, the SEC took a cautious approach to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Following the media reports and subsequent complaints, the SEC sought clarification from Chief Secretary Rajesh Agarwal regarding the government's intentions. The Chief Secretary responded by referencing the consolidated instructions issued by the SEC on November 4, 2025, concerning the model code of conduct. The SEC clarified that while regular or pending installments under the scheme could be disbursed, no advance payments were permissible during the period in which the model code of conduct was in effect. The guidelines do allow for development works and welfare schemes already underway before the elections to continue.
The opposition Congress party has been vocal in its criticism of the government's handling of the situation. State Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant accused the ruling party leaders of being "selfish brothers" who expect votes as a "return gift" from the women beneficiaries. He argued that the funds disbursed under the scheme come from taxpayers' money and should not be treated as the private property of those in power. Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal stated that his party was not against the Ladki Bahin scheme but objected to the release of two months' assistance on the eve of voting, which he believes is a clear violation of the model code of conduct.
In response to the controversy, Chief Minister Fadnavis maintained that the Ladki Bahin Yojana is an ongoing scheme of the state government and should not be subject to the restrictions of the election code of conduct.
The SEC's decision underscores its commitment to ensuring a level playing field during elections. By preventing the advance disbursement of funds under the Ladki Bahin Yojana, the commission aims to mitigate any potential influence on voters and uphold the principles of free and fair elections. The incident highlights the delicate balance between implementing welfare schemes and adhering to electoral regulations, especially in the lead-up to crucial elections.
