Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin Scheme strains budgets and alliances

Maharashtra's Ladki Bahin scheme, a key factor in the Mahayuti alliance's victory, is now facing fiscal challenges and creating internal disputes. Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat has openly criticized the Finance Ministry, led by Ajit Pawar, for reallocating ₹450 crore from his department to fund the scheme's payouts. Shirsat claims this diversion is unlawful and threatens social welfare projects.