Maharashtra's State Election Commission has halted the advance disbursal of the January instalment for the 'Ladki Bahin' scheme, citing the Model Code of Conduct in effect for upcoming municipal elections. The decision followed complaints alleging the government planned to release combined December and January payments before Makar Sankranti as a pre-poll gift. While regular or pending instalments can be paid, the SEC clarified no advance payments or new beneficiaries are allowed during the code period. The opposition Congress had objected to the timing, calling it an inducement, while the ruling BJP defended it as an ongoing welfare program.