Delhi HC questions MP/MLA endorsement for Lakshmi Yojana benefits
The Delhi High Court has questioned the government's requirement for MP or MLA endorsements for the 'Delhi Lakshmi Yojana' financial assistance scheme. The court suggested that such a requirement lacks legal basis and could lead to political patronage.
Why it matters
This case touches on the balance between administrative verification and the potential for political gatekeeping in welfare distribution.
The Delhi High Court on Wednesday questioned the Delhi government’s decision to require an endorsement from the local MP or MLA for women seeking benefits under the ‘Delhi Lakshmi Yojana’, which provides financial assistance of ₹2,500 a month.
A Bench of Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tejas Karia said such an endorsement could not be justified when eligibility could be verified through other documents. The court asked the government to seek instructions on the issue and listed the matter for August 24.
“Seek instructions. We can’t approve of it,” the Bench told the government counsel.
The proceedings arose from a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by former Congress councillor Abhishek Dutt and sitting councillor Vedpal Sheetal Chaudhary.
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