Mumbai: Budget Cut Sparks Controversy
The Maharashtra government’s 2025-26 budget has significantly slashed the funding for the Ladki Bahin scheme. The allocation now stands at Rs 36,000 crore, a sharp decrease from the Rs 46,000 crore budgeted last year. Despite earlier promises to increase financial aid under this program, the new budget makes no mention of a payout hike. The Opposition has condemned this decision, accusing the government of breaking its election commitments.
Ladki Bahin Scheme: A Critical Initiative
The Ladki Bahin scheme, launched in July 2024 under the previous Eknath Shinde-led government, provides financial assistance to approximately 2.53 crore women across Maharashtra. Eligible women currently receive Rs 1,500 per month. Ahead of the November 2024 Assembly elections, the ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), promised to raise the monthly payout to Rs 2,100. This commitment, however, remains unfulfilled.
Since its inception, the scheme has disbursed Rs 33,232 crore, easing financial burdens for millions. Yet, the latest budget not only fails to increase payouts but also slashes funding by Rs 10,000 crore. This move has led to a heated political confrontation between the ruling coalition and the Opposition.
Opposition Labels Budget as ‘Bogus’
The reduction in funding has prompted fierce criticism from Opposition leaders. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray described the budget as “completely bogus,” accusing the Mahayuti government of making empty promises.
“This budget is full of hollow assurances, reflecting the government’s insincerity. The promised increase to Rs 2,100 remains on paper. Clearly, their commitments were nothing but ‘chunavi jumla’ (election tactics),” Thackeray declared. He further alleged that the government has turned its back on farmers, youth, and women since securing electoral victory.
The Opposition’s anger extends beyond the Ladki Bahin scheme. Concerns are also rising over Maharashtra’s mounting debt. According to the budget figures, the state’s debt is expected to grow by 10% in 2024-25, increasing from Rs 7,11,278 crore to Rs 7,82,991 crore. Critics argue that such rising liabilities undermine the government’s ability to deliver on welfare promises.
Government Defends Budget Decisions
In response to the backlash, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended the budget, emphasizing the need for financial discipline. “We remain committed to raising the Ladki Bahin payout, but fiscal responsibility is crucial,” Fadnavis stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Dy. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reassured citizens that the increase to Rs 2,100 would eventually materialize. “This commitment remains active. It is not a printing error. Implementation takes time, but we will deliver,” Shinde asserted while addressing reporters.
The government argues that balancing welfare programs with fiscal sustainability requires careful planning. However, the absence of a clear timeline for the promised increase continues to fuel public skepticism.
Political Ramifications Ahead of Elections
The budget cuts come at a sensitive time as Maharashtra gears up for the 2025 local body elections. With public expectations high, the Mahayuti alliance faces growing pressure to honor its pre-election commitments.
Political analysts suggest that the Opposition will leverage the budget’s shortcomings to galvanize support. The failure to increase Ladki Bahin payouts could become a rallying point against the ruling coalition. Furthermore, rising debt levels add another layer of complexity, raising questions about the state’s financial health.
What Lies Ahead?
As the political debate intensifies, the Maharashtra government’s handling of the Ladki Bahin scheme remains under close scrutiny. While the administration insists that the promised increase is forthcoming, the Opposition continues to frame the budget as a betrayal of public trust.
In the coming months, the government must navigate both fiscal constraints and rising public dissatisfaction. Whether the Mahayuti coalition can rebuild confidence through concrete action remains to be seen. Meanwhile, the Opposition shows no signs of easing its attacks, ensuring that the Ladki Bahin scheme remains a focal point in Maharashtra’s political landscape.
