Sambalpur: The Issac Santra leprosy home at Hatibari in this district is allegedly mired in severe irregularities as inmates are complaining of poor quality food being served to them, a report said.
The inmates alleged that they are not getting breakfast as per provisions but are instead served with rice and a preparation of boiled gram (chana) everyday which they do not find palatable. The quality of food served to them and the timing are not in order.
A private agency supplies to the inmates but the authorities never supervises what is served to them, it is alleged. The district administration has also neglected in checking the food quality and quantity served to them which has given rise to the problem.
Moreover, they are being served with same stuff thrice a day which is of very low quality. This has sparked resentment among the inmates.
According to provision, the authorities are required to serve them with Upma or any preparation made with Suji and flattened rice. However, it is just the opposite here. The lunch needs to be served to them by 12 noon but it is often served late.
This apart, what they get in lunch is only rice, gram curry and dalma which they do not find palatable. In evening, they are also served with same watery dal and rice.
The inmates alleged that the rice served to them is of sub-standard quality and gives out a pungent smell. The leprosy home authorities have also stopped giving them non-vegetarian food like meat since March despite the rule mandating non-vegetarian food twice a week.
The inmates who are suffering from old-age problems along with leprosy are also not being given nutritious food.
Notably, the leprosy home was established at Hatibari as part of leprosy eradication programme of the government in 1957. Eminent physician, Gandhian and social worker Dr Issac Santra who is known for his contribution to leprosy eradication programme was the founder of this leprosy home.
The leprosy home is situated over 560 acre of land having 10 ponds, fruits and flower gardens. The state government is providing all facilities to this leprosy home. The Governor of Odisha is the head of this leprosy home which is managed by Hind Kushtha Nibaran Sangh. This leprosy home was once a shelter for leprosy patients from in and outside the state. However, the number of inmates has reduced with passage of time. There were 456 inmates in 2005 which has now come down to 160 inmates.
When contacted, Sashi Bhusan Patel, chief district medical officer (CDMO) said that he will order a probe into the charges and will take appropriate steps.
PNN