Protests erupt in South 24 Parganas over nepotism and discrepancies in housing scheme, BDO office targeted

Protests have erupted across South 24 Parganas, particularly in Raidighi, as residents express outrage over alleged discrepancies in the housing scheme survey under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Hundreds of villagers gathered outside the Block Development Office (BDO) to voice their frustrations over what they claim is a flawed and biased selection process. The protests were triggered by allegations that the survey systematically excluded eligible beneficiaries while including individuals with political connections, leading to widespread discontent and calls for immediate action.

Villagers reported that many deserving families, particularly those without adequate housing, have been left off the eligibility list. According to residents, some individuals who already own pucca houses have had their names included, while those who genuinely need assistance have been omitted. “We have gathered here to demand justice,” stated Rukhsat Parveen, a local Trinamool Congress panchayat member. “Many of us have been overlooked despite fulfilling the criteria. This is a matter of our rights.”

The BDO defended the survey process, explaining that it follows guidelines established at the district level to identify the most needy beneficiaries. They emphasized that the list is intended to prioritize those without housing, based on data collected during the survey. However, the residents have raised questions regarding the methodology and criteria used to compile the list. “We need transparency and a fair review of this process,” urged Sheikh Basir Ali, the husband of a panchayat member who joined the protests.

In addition to the unrest in Raidighi, protests have also spread to Goghat in Hooghly district, where local residents and even Trinamool Congress members have criticized their own party's panchayat committee for alleged nepotism. Complaints have surfaced about favoritism in the housing scheme, with some panchayat members accusing their colleagues of prioritizing friends and relatives over genuine beneficiaries. The protests in Goghat included demonstrations outside the local panchayat office, with villagers demanding accountability from elected officials.

Meanwhile, residents of Tildanga village in Birbhum have joined the movement, raising similar concerns about the housing scheme's eligibility criteria. Many in this village have expressed anger over what they perceive as a lack of support for the poorest households. They, too, have called for a thorough reevaluation of the eligibility list to ensure that those in need are not overlooked.