Telkoi: Alleging large-scale irregularities in distribution of PDS (Public Distribution System) items, hundreds of people of Saleikena panchayat under this block in Keonjhar district locked the block office Friday.
Routine official work and training programme on election duty were affected by the agitation. Scores of beneficiaries alleged that they have been deprived of rations for a long time.
Though they had drawn the attention of the district and block administrations, no step had been taken to address their concerns.
Blaming the administration for the mess in PDS, the locals demanded immediate measures to streamline the system.
PDS items were being distributed to women SHGs, but rations were not delivered for some months. In February, the locals had locked the panchayat office. At that time, the BDO and a civil supply officer were detained.
The locals were assured that the matter will be solved in 13 days, but no step was taken.
Beneficiaries had also gheraoed the sub-collector’s office February 18. The sub-collector had assured them of resolving the issue soon.
It was learnt that over 1,700 beneficiaries were deprived of rations.
PNN