Bombay High Court Slams Maharashtra Govt Over Pension Delays
Bombay High Court criticises Maharashtra government over delayed pensions, questions spending on Ladki Bahin Yojana amid financial concerns.
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Bombay High Court Pulls Up Maharashtra Govt Over Pension Delays
Mumbai: The Bombay High Court has strongly criticised the Government of Maharashtra for delays in releasing pensions to retired employees, raising concerns over financial priorities.
A bench comprising Justice Ravindra Ghughe and Justice Abhay Mantri observed that if the state is facing a financial crunch, it should reconsider spending on welfare schemes like the Ladki Bahin Yojana and prioritise pension payments.
The scheme, launched ahead of the 2024 Assembly elections under former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, provides ₹1,500 per month to eligible women and reportedly costs the state around ₹40,000 crore annually.
Petition Highlights Financial Strain
The issue came to light through a petition filed by a Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) education department employee, who sought payment of her provident fund and pension under the Seventh Pay Commission.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation stated that delays were due to insufficient funds received from the state government.
Court’s Strong Observations
Taking serious note, the court questioned why funds were not released to the civic body and stressed that pensions, gratuity, and provident fund payments must be prioritised.
In sharp remarks, the bench suggested that if the government is genuinely facing financial difficulties, it should consider drastic measures such as selling office assets—including furniture and air conditioners—or even official vehicles to clear dues.
The court emphasised that employees must receive their rightful earnings without delay.
Directions Issued
The High Court directed authorities to file an affidavit in the next hearing, committing to a timeline for clearing pending dues.
Changes in Scheme Beneficiaries
Meanwhile, the state has begun tightening eligibility criteria for the Ladki Bahin scheme. The number of beneficiaries has reportedly dropped from 2.43 lakh to 1.72 lakh, leaving many individuals excluded from the program.
