Election Commission Halts 'Ladki Bahin' Scheme Installment in Maharashtra

• Maharashtra Election Commission barred the state government from releasing the January installment of the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme.
• The decision was made due to the Model Code of Conduct being in force for local body elections.
• Congress had urged the State Election Commission to delay the release of December and January installments until after municipal elections.
• Minister Girish Mahajan had claimed financial assistance for December and January would be released before Makar Sankranti.
• The 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' provides 1,500 rupees monthly to eligible women and is considered crucial for the 'Mahayuti' government.

Why It Matters: Maharashtra's 'Mahayuti' government faces setback as EC halts 'Ladki Bahin' scheme installment due to MCC.