As Maharashtra gears up for local body elections in the next few months, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Rohit Pawar has raised concerns about the future of the Ladki Bahin Yojana, alleging that the ruling BJP may be planning to use the scheme only until votes are secured — after which it could be scrapped.

Speaking to reporters, Rohit Pawar said, "Local body polls are expected in 3-4 months. The scheme might continue until then, but after that, it could be abruptly stopped." He drew a direct comparison to previous legal challenges raised by BJP supporters, adding, "Just like how a BJP worker went to court against OBC reservation, similarly, a BJP worker might challenge this scheme in court to have it scrapped."

The Ladki Bahin Yojana, aimed at providing financial support to women from economically weaker sections, has been widely promoted by the state government. But Pawar alleged that “they have a very different ideology... they can go to any extent”, referring to the BJP’s approach toward welfare schemes.

Pawar also questioned the sincerity of the ruling alliance in implementing long-term social reforms. “They’re not running this scheme with the intention of empowering women — they’re using it for votes,” he claimed.