The Maharashtra government’s flagship Ladki Bahin Scheme—credited with strengthening the Mahayuti’s support among women during the recent Assembly elections—has been hit by a major scandal after large-scale misuse surfaced during verification. The scheme, which offers ₹1,500 per month to eligible women, had seen a surge in applications during the pre-election period, overwhelming officials and leaving little scope for thorough scrutiny.
As detailed checks began recently, serious violations were uncovered. A key rule bars beneficiaries from availing funds from any other government welfare scheme while also requiring them to meet specific income criteria. Despite this, thousands of ineligible applicants managed to slip through.
Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare informed the Assembly that 9,526 ineligible women wrongfully received ₹14.50 crore. Even more startling was the revelation that 14,298 men fraudulently registered as ‘Ladki Bahins’, siphoning off ₹21.44 crore. The disclosures triggered outrage and raised questions about administrative oversight.
Tatkare said recovery orders have been issued and action has been initiated against officials responsible for the lapses. She warned that those obstructing the investigation “will not be spared.”
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, highlighting financial strain, remarked that “everything can be managed except money.” Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured strict action against all fraudulent beneficiaries and said no interference in the probe will be tolerated.
With local body elections approaching, the scandal is expected to have significant political repercussions, even as genuine beneficiaries brace for delays amid tighter verification.
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