DARBHANGA, Dec. 17 -- The Bihar government has initiated steps to recover Rs.10,000 each that were mistakenly credited to the bank accounts of male residents under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, a scheme meant exclusively for women beneficiaries associated with Jeevika flagship scheme of the state government.

The erroneous transfer came to light when the Block Project Implementation Unit (BPIU) of Jeevika in Jale block of Darbhanga issued notices to several male recipients, directing them to return the amount. It triggered a political row, with opposition parties alleging administrative lapses and accusing the ruling NDA of latter's attempt to "buy votes" ahead of elections.

According to the official communication, the scheme is...