Keonjhar: Tension prevailed in Keonjhar district Monday after the residents of more than six villages under Saleikena panchayat of Telkoi block picketed the office of Sub-Collector alleging irregularities in distribution of rice.
Beneficiaries of this panchayat alleged that they are deprived of their share of rice owing to misappropriation of food grains by the authorities.
According to sources, the locals have been deprived of ration since November. Despite repeated complaints, no one has paid heed to their pleas.
The resenting villagers held a meeting over the issue and reached the district Collector’s office Monday. However, as the DM had gone to attend a grievance cell meeting, the villagers gheraoed the Sub-Collector’s office.
Earlier, the villagers had lodged a written complaint with the BDO alleging irregularities in PDS rations, including rice, kerosene, sugar and wheat. The BDO, who had assured to look into the matter within 4 days, sent a supply inspector to probe the allegations after 20 days.
The villagers alleged that since a proper probe was not conducted, there should be a fresh probe. However, no steps have been taken in this regard till now. Fed up over the neglect, the villagers had locked up the panchayat office and staged a demonstration February 5.
Soon after, the BDO reached the village and assured to provide them the withheld ration for the months of November and December. He also promised to initiate action against those found guilty for the irregularities. But nothing has been done in this regard till now.
The villagers have now warned to stage a sit-in protest before the Collectorate if their pleas were not heard. Notably, the Public Distribution System (PDS) in the country facilitates the supply of food grains at a fairly low price to the weaker sections of the society.
PNN