Chaos at Park Circus camp forces closure of YuvaSathi and Lakshmi Bhandar registrations

The registration camp for the state government’s YuvaSathi and Lakshmi Bhandar schemes was shut within hours of opening at Park Circus Maidan on Sunday following severe mismanagement and overcrowding. The drive, part of a statewide campaign scheduled from February 15 to 26, aims to directly link beneficiaries with financial assistance programmes for youth and women.

Hundreds of applicants gathered at the main centre in Park Circus, Kolkata, from early morning. However, officials reportedly struggled to handle the turnout due to inadequate desks, computers and internet facilities, bringing the registration process to a standstill. Structural and seating arrangements at the camp were also found lacking.

As the crowd swelled and disorder increased, the administration temporarily closed the centre to prevent any untoward incident. The move left many applicants disappointed, particularly in the wake of heightened enthusiasm following the recent enhancement of benefits announced in the state Budget.

Administrative sources said fresh preparations are underway, with additional personnel and improved infrastructure being arranged at Park Circus Maidan. Authorities have assured that the camp will resume from 10 a.m. on Monday with smoother operations, reiterating that the campaign will continue until February 26 to ensure all eligible beneficiaries can register.