Balangir: In a tragic incident, an Indira Awas Yojana aspirant under severe mental pressure Saturday attempted suicide by consuming poison over delay in the sanction of bills for a pucca house under the government launched Indira Awas Yojana (IAY). He was identified as Jhankar Bagh (58), of Uparbahal village under Loisingha block in this district.
Family members rescued him in critical condition and admitted him to district headquarters hospital. He was again shifted to VSS Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) for further treatment. According to family members, Bagh was allotted a house under the Indira Awas Yojana in 2007-2008. After initial construction, he got an amount of Rs 5,000 from the administration in first installment.
The local sarpanch and panchayat executive officer assured him of Rs 1.20 lakh after the completion of his house with his own money. Later, Bagh borrowed money and completed his house and approached concerned officials for release of his bills. However, no one paid heed to his pleas.
He was made to run from pillar to post but to no avail. Depressed, after running for years now, he consumed poison in his house, family members said. His condition was stated critical while going to the press.
The wife of Bagh and his son Susant Bagh accused the local administration of forcing him to commit suicide. Protesting the apathy of the administration, family members warned to sit on an agitation. Locals also sympatised with Bagh. PNN
