Ladki Bahin Yojana Scam: 26.34 Lakh Ineligible Beneficiaries Suspended In Maharashtra

A major scam has emerged in Maharashtra's Chief Minister Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, causing widespread uproar across the state. So far, 12 instalments of the scheme have been distributed, but an extensive verification process has revealed massive irregularities. The state government has now taken action by temporarily suspending 26.34 lakh ineligible beneficiaries suspected of fraud.

Scheme Background

Launched in June 2024, the Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana was introduced to empower women financially in Maharashtra. Under this initiative, eligible women between the ages of 21 and 65 are entitled to receive ₹1,500 per month as financial support. The scheme targets economically weaker women residing in the state and is intended to foster self-reliance.

Shocking Irregularities Exposed

Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare confirmed the fraud and said during eligibility verification, several discrepancies were discovered. Many applicants were found to be receiving benefits despite not meeting the eligibility criteria. Shockingly, some beneficiaries included men, while others belonged to families with multiple claimants-more than two in several cases.

The department collaborated with all government agencies to re-verify every applicant. The Information and Technology Department reported that approximately 26.34 lakh people were drawing benefits without being eligible. As a result, their accounts have been temporarily suspended.

Accounts Under Investigation

According to The Economic Times, accounts of 26.34 lakh individuals have been blocked. Meanwhile, around 2.25 crore legitimate beneficiaries received their June 2025 instalment.

Now, district officials will investigate the suspended accounts individually. If an account holder is found to be genuinely eligible, their benefits will be reinstated. However, those found guilty of submitting false information may face strict action from the state government.

Can Every Woman Apply?

This scheme is specifically available to women between 21 and 65 years of age who reside in Maharashtra. Women must apply online to receive benefits. Whether married, unmarried, or divorced, women are eligible-provided their family's annual income does not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.

To qualify, beneficiaries must not be availing of any other government scheme, and a valid bank account is mandatory for fund transfers.

The discovery of such large-scale misuse has raised concerns over transparency in the implementation of welfare schemes, prompting the government to tighten its monitoring mechanisms going forward.