Dhenkanal, Aug. 2 (UDN): Odisha Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Krushna Chandra Patra on Saturday took officials to task after allegations surfaced that several deserving families had been excluded from the beneficiary list of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in Dhenkanal district.
The Minister visited Gahamakhunti village under Kaimati Gram Panchayat in Dhenkanal Sadar block following complaints from local residents that eligible beneficiaries had been left out during the preparation of the PMAY list.
During his visit, Patra interacted with villagers and reviewed the beneficiary records. After verifying the complaints, he expressed strong dissatisfaction with the officials responsible for the survey and preparation of the list, saying that genuine beneficiaries should not be deprived of government housing assistance.
Addressing officials at the spot, the Minister emphasized that there is no cap on the number of eligible beneficiaries who can be covered under the housing scheme. He questioned why deserving families had been excluded and warned that any negligence or political interference in the selection process would invite strict action.
Patra also cautioned Block Development Officer (BDO) Rahul Mandal and Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) Swarna Prabha Sahu, stating that disciplinary measures, including transfers, could be initiated if lapses were found during the inquiry.
“The objective of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana is to ensure that every eligible poor family has access to a permanent house. No deserving beneficiary should be denied this benefit,” the Minister said while assuring villagers that all complaints would be thoroughly examined.
He further directed the officials to verify the claims of the excluded families and take corrective steps wherever genuine cases are identified. The Minister reiterated the State Government’s commitment to ensuring transparency and fairness in the implementation of welfare schemes.
The visit comes amid growing concerns over alleged irregularities in PMAY beneficiary selection in several parts of Odisha, prompting the government to closely monitor the implementation of the flagship housing programme.
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