As ‘Ladki Bahin’ Spends Crores, Malnutrition Deaths Persist in Melghat, Bombay HC Asks State for Explanation

Overview

The Bombay High Court has raised serious concerns over ongoing malnutrition-related deaths in Maharashtra’s Melghat region, questioning the state government’s priorities as significant funds are allocated to welfare schemes like ‘Ladki Bahin’.

HC Questions Government Spending Priorities

During recent hearings, the court expressed anguish over the continued deaths of tribal children due to malnutrition and lack of adequate medical care. Petitioners argued that while thousands of crores are being spent on welfare initiatives, basic healthcare infrastructure in Melghat remains severely inadequate.

The court highlighted that despite decades of directives and interventions, the situation on the ground has shown limited improvement, raising concerns about policy implementation and administrative efficiency.

Alarming Situation in Melghat

Melghat, a tribal region in Maharashtra’s Amravati district, has long struggled with malnutrition, especially among children, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Reports presented in court revealed that deaths continue despite repeated assurances and schemes aimed at addressing the crisis.

Judges noted that many deaths occur due to lack of food, medical attention, and poor infrastructure, describing the situation as tragic and unacceptable in a welfare state. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Healthcare Gaps and Delayed Projects

The High Court also questioned delays in critical healthcare projects, including the expansion of a hospital in Dharni from 100 to 300 beds. Despite official announcements, construction has yet to begin, further worsening the healthcare crisis in the region. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Additionally, reports indicate that many medical positions in tribal areas remain vacant, and specialists often visit only briefly, limiting effective treatment for malnourished patients. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

‘Ladki Bahin’ Scheme Under Scrutiny

The ‘Ladki Bahin’ scheme, aimed at providing financial support to women, has come under scrutiny during the proceedings. Petitioners argued that excessive spending on such schemes contrasts sharply with the lack of investment in critical healthcare and nutrition programs.

The court did not directly question the scheme’s intent but emphasized the need for balanced allocation of resources, especially in regions facing life-threatening challenges.

Long-Standing Issue Despite Court Orders

The issue of malnutrition in Melghat has been under judicial scrutiny for over two decades. The High Court noted that despite more than 100 directives and multiple policy measures, implementation has been inconsistent and ineffective. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

In earlier hearings, the court had set a goal to eliminate malnutrition deaths, but the persistence of fatalities indicates systemic gaps in governance and service delivery.

Conclusion

The Bombay High Court’s sharp observations underline a critical governance challenge—ensuring that welfare spending translates into real improvements on the ground. As malnutrition deaths persist in Melghat, the state government now faces increasing pressure to provide clear answers and take immediate corrective action.