West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Hooghly, June 4: Thursday in the Goghat Gram Panchayat area over the distribution and submission of forms under the Annapurna Bhandar scheme. Allegations have surfaced that certain individuals were collecting ₹100 per applicant in the name of assisting with form filling right outside the panchayat office.

Local sources claimed that such financial transactions had been going on for quite some time. Residents expressed anger that despite the scheme being a government initiative meant to be free of cost, applicants were being forced to pay extra money to access its benefits, placing an additional burden on low-income families.

The issue came to light on Thursday, leading to commotion at the panchayat premises. Upon receiving information, Gram Panchayat head Santana Manna and opposition leader Siddheshwar Pakhira reached the spot and spoke to applicants to verify the allegations. Locals claimed that the accused individuals left the area after the matter escalated.

Several applicants alleged that although the application process is supposed to be completely free, they were being charged money for form submission.

Opposition leader Siddheshwar Pakhira blamed the situation on a lack of administrative monitoring and demanded a thorough investigation along with strict action against those involved.

The other hand, Gram Panchayat head Santana Manna stated that they immediately reached the spot after the allegations surfaced and tried to bring the situation under control. She added that if the investigation confirms illegal collection of money, strict action will be taken against those responsible.

Residents have demanded a full inquiry into who is involved and since when such practices have been going on. Authorities have assured an investigation into the matter, and although the situation is currently under control, tension continues to linger in the area.