MP High Court examines plea against Ladli Behna scheme over fiscal impact

The Madhya Pradesh High Court has issued a notice to the state government following a petition that seeks closure of the Ladli Behna scheme on grounds of its substantial financial burden and limited effectiveness. The petitioner, Sudha Dubey, has argued that the scheme's monthly payment of ₹1,500 is inadequate for household sustenance and lacks evidence demonstrating its role in creating sustainable economic opportunities for women.

Ladli Behna, launched as a flagship welfare initiative by the Madhya Pradesh government, provides monthly financial assistance to eligible women across the state. The scheme has been positioned as a measure to support women's financial security, though critics contend it falls short of addressing deeper economic empowerment concerns.

Dubey's petition questions the scheme's design and outcomes, emphasizing that the stipend amount does not meet basic household expenses and there is no documented evidence that the assistance translates into long-term financial independence or skill development opportunities for beneficiaries. The challenge raises broader questions about the efficacy of direct cash transfer schemes as standalone interventions for women's economic empowerment.

The High Court's notice to the government indicates the petition has been admitted for examination. The court's decision on whether to entertain the challenge to the scheme's continuation will likely have significant implications for similar welfare programmes across the state and potentially influence the broader policy debate around cash assistance versus targeted economic development initiatives.