Setback for Mahayuti Govt: Poll Body Halts Advance Payout for Ladki Bahin Yojana

A news bulletin reports a setback for the Mahayuti government in Maharashtra as the State Election Commission (SEC) has stalled advance payments for the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana'. The government had planned to release a combined payment of ₹3,000 to beneficiaries on January 14, ahead of BMC polls. Following complaints from the Congress and other opposition parties, the SEC intervened, citing the Model Code of Conduct. According to the commission's directive, while existing schemes can continue, 'advance payments of the existing schemes cannot be made'. This decision blocks the two-month lump sum payment, permitting only a single month's disbursement. The scheme is noted as having played a significant role in the previous assembly elections for the Mahayuti government.