Nitin Raut Slams State Government Over Funding Issues in 'Ladki Bahin Yojana'

The Maharashtra government’s flagship scheme — Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana — launched during the assembly elections to provide financial assistance of ₹1,500 per month to women, is now facing criticism over funding issues. Amid reports of discontent within the cabinet over the diversion of funds from other departments, senior Congress leader and former minister Nitin Raut has voiced strong opposition to the current management of the scheme.

Expressing his disapproval, Raut remarked that if the state government cannot arrange dedicated funds for the scheme, it should be scrapped altogether. "If there is no money to run the Ladki Bahin Yojana, then shut it down. Who is stopping you? But don’t misuse the funds allocated for the Social Justice Department," he said.

Sources indicate that several ministers have raised concerns about financial reallocation from essential sectors to support this welfare initiative, creating strain on department budgets. Raut's statement highlights growing internal tensions and questions the state’s fiscal planning and prioritization.

His comments have added fuel to the ongoing debate about the long-term sustainability of populist schemes and the need for transparent budget allocation.