Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Election Commission has prohibited the advance disbursal of January benefits under the Chief Minister’s ‘Majhi Ladki Behan’ scheme. This decision aligns with the model code of conduct enforced due to the upcoming municipal elections. The scheme provides financial assistance of ₹1,500 per month to eligible women, benefiting over one crore recipients across the state.
According to sources, the state government had announced the payment of two installments—December 2025 and January 2026—totaling ₹3,000, on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. However, the opposition Congress party raised objections, alleging that such advance payments violate the election code of conduct.
Maharashtra Congress General Secretary Sandesh Kondvilkar filed a complaint with the State Election Commission, stating that transferring a substantial amount just a day before voting on January 15 in 29 municipal corporations could unduly influence women voters. He described the move as akin to ‘mass government bribery’.
Following the complaint, the Election Commission sought a report and clarification from Chief Secretary Rajesh Agrawal. In his response, the Chief Secretary clarified that the Ladki Behan scheme is a continuous welfare program, similar to the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana, and such ongoing schemes are permitted to continue during the model code period.
Nevertheless, the Commission issued clear instructions allowing only the regular December 2025 installment of ₹1,500 to be paid. It barred the advance payment of the January 2026 installment and prohibited the selection of new beneficiaries or any additional benefits during this period. Consequently, the government was not permitted to transfer January’s installment before January 14.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had earlier maintained that the scheme is exempt from electoral restrictions and assured that women would continue to receive their rightful benefits. Meanwhile, Congress clarified that it does not oppose the scheme but considers advance payments before elections inappropriate. BJP leaders responded by accusing Congress of adopting an anti-women stance.
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