The opposition Nationalist Congress Party (NCP-Sharadchandra Pawar) intensified its attack on the Mahayuti government on Thursday over the implementation of the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana. The party alleged that lapses in beneficiary verification led to an estimated loss of Rs 24,300 crore to the state exchequer.
Allegations of Ineligible Beneficiaries
Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, NCP (SP) spokesperson Mahesh Tapase claimed that over 80 lakh beneficiaries who received financial assistance under the flagship welfare scheme were later found to be ineligible. This raised serious questions about the government's screening and verification processes.
According to Tapase, nearly 81 lakh out of the scheme's total 2.47 crore recipients were identified as ineligible. The list allegedly includes around 14,000 men, nearly 10 lakh income taxpayers, about five lakh government employees, and several lakh vehicle owners—categories not entitled to benefits under the scheme.
Political Motivations Alleged
Tapase alleged that the verification mechanism was deliberately diluted ahead of elections to maximize enrolment. He stated, "Was this a welfare scheme or an election campaign funded at taxpayers' expense?" He further claimed that the government's reliance on self-certification before detailed scrutiny amounted to administrative failure.
The party estimated that payments to ineligible beneficiaries resulted in a financial burden of around Rs 24,300 crore on the state. Tapase demanded that the government disclose who approved the verification framework, which officials were responsible, and what action would be taken against those found negligent.
Demand for Accountability
Tapase called upon the ruling BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP factions in the Mahayuti alliance to "accept moral responsibility" for the alleged financial loss. He highlighted the opportunity cost, suggesting the amount could have been used for drinking water projects, irrigation, rural roads, hospitals, and schools.
"Every rupee belongs to the taxpayers of Maharashtra. The government must explain how such a large number of ineligible beneficiaries entered the system and who will be held accountable," he said.
The Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana is one of the state's largest direct benefit transfer programs for women. The state government has maintained that verification exercises are underway and corrective measures are being taken to remove ineligible beneficiaries.
