The State Election Commission (SEC) of Maharashtra has intervened to prevent the state government from distributing an advance payment under its flagship 'Ladki Bahin' scheme. This decisive move comes amidst the ongoing code of conduct for impending civic body elections.
Directive Follows Complaints Over Pre-Poll Benefit
The commission issued this clarification after receiving multiple complaints. These grievances were prompted by widespread media reports indicating that beneficiaries of the 'Ladki Bahin' initiative were slated to receive a special disbursement. The reports claimed a sum of Rs 3,000, covering instalments for both December and January, would be deposited into beneficiaries' accounts before January 14. This early transfer was being framed as a festive 'Makar Sankranti gift' from the government.
By ordering a halt to this advance payment, the SEC has reinforced the sanctity of the model code of conduct. This set of rules is designed to ensure a level playing field and prevent the ruling dispensation from using state machinery or welfare schemes to gain undue electoral advantage during the poll process.
Timing and Implications of the Order
The timing of the SEC's order is critical. With the model code of conduct in force for the municipal elections, any financial announcement or distribution that could be construed as influencing voters is strictly scrutinized. The commission's action underscores its commitment to conducting free and fair elections.
The reported plan to bundle two months' instalments as a Sankranti gift has now been effectively put on hold. This means lakhs of women beneficiaries across Maharashtra, who might have been expecting the funds ahead of the harvest festival, will have to wait until the electoral process is concluded, unless the instalments fall due as per the original schedule.
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between welfare governance and electoral propriety. While governments are expected to continue their administrative functions, the election commission acts as a watchdog to ensure that these functions do not morph into campaign tools.
What This Means for the Poll Landscape
The SEC's firm stance sends a clear message to all political parties and the state administration. It establishes that the enforcement of the model code will be rigorous and that perceived violations will be addressed promptly. The decision is likely to have political ramifications, as the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme is a significant populist measure aimed at a large voter base.
As the civic polls progress, this order sets a precedent for how similar schemes and announcements will be treated under the watchful eye of the election authority. The focus now shifts back to the electoral battleground, with the SEC ensuring that the contest remains focused on governance records and future promises, rather than last-minute financial inducements.
