Jharsuguda: Despite tall talks of the state government boasting of its popular schemes aimed at uplifting the poor and downtrodden people, many needy are still deprived of government benefits.
An old man, identified as Jogendra Nikhunti from Pujaripalli village under Lakhanpur block in Jharsuguda district, is a point in case. Jogendra has been languishing in a toilet for more than past one year after his kutcha house was damaged in rains more than a year back.
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Jogendra, a daily-wage labourer, has been living in the toilet built under union government’s Swachh Bharat Mission. Despite several pleas, no one has extended any help to the helpless old man.
“My house got damaged in the rain last year. Since then, I have been living in the toilet with all my belongings. It is very difficult to fit into the small room. I am forced to live here sans any better option,” Jogendra said.
Adding to his woes, Jogendra does not get any PDS ration. Ironically, he has received a hefty electricity bill though he does not have a house or electricity connection.
On being contacted, local sarpanch Krushna Kalo said, “Ration card has been provided to Jogendra, but he is ineligible to get ration as his Aadhaar card has not been linked to it. We will look into the matter to provide ration and a pucca house for him soon”.
Lakhanpur block development officer (BDO) Sanjiv Patel assured to conduct an inquiry into the matter.
“We have a Permanent Waiting List (PWL) of beneficiaries. We provide houses to the beneficiaries when their turn comes in the list. We have to check the list before extending any help,” Patel added.
PNN
