EC Blocks Advance Payout of Ladki Bahin Scheme in Maharashtra Amidst Poll Code

• The State Election Commission (SEC) barred the Maharashtra government from releasing the January installment of the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme in advance.
• The decision was made due to the enforcement of the model code of conduct for upcoming municipal elections.
• Complaints arose after media reports suggested beneficiaries would receive Rs 3,000 (December and January installments) before January 14 as a Makar Sankranti gift.
• The SEC clarified that while regular or pending installments can be disbursed, no advance payments are allowed during the model code period.
• The Opposition criticized the advance payout as an attempt to influence voters, drawing parallels to a similar situation in the Bihar Assembly elections.

Why It Matters: Maharashtra's 'Ladki Bahin' scheme advance payout blocked by EC due to model code of conduct.