Raisuan: The 154th birth anniversary of noted freedom fighter Dharanidhar Bhuyan was observed May 5 in Keonjhar and other parts of the state, but sadly his native place Kusumita remains a picture of neglect. His kin are now living in miserable condition, a report said.
Locals recalled the contribution of Dharanidhar Bhuyan Sunday. Leaders often make it a point to garland his statues at several parts of the district, but never show any concern for his kin and his birth place, they rued.
Dharanidhar was born May 5 in 1864 at Kusumita. He had fought against the kings who were meting out injustice to their subjects at that time.
Unfortunately, his village still lacks a proper road. Most of his kin are jobless and sometimes migrate outside in search of livelihood. Telephone services are poor, locals said, adding that whenever they want to speak with someone, they have to climb up to an elevated location to access network.
Narahari Bhuyan(67) and Pandab Bhuyan (71) are the kin of Dharanidhar. Despite their old age, the administration has not enlisted them under pension schemes. Ujwala scheme is still a dream for them.
Locals alleged that officials of the administration have never set their feet in their village to observe the birth anniversary of the freedom fighter.
Dharani Sangathan, an outfit named after him, observed his birth anniversary near his portrait Saturday.
Intellectuals and outfits demanded that the administration took immediate step for development of the village and ensure basic facilities to the freedom fighter’s kin.