Malda, Nov. 5 -- Allegations of irregularities in the distribution of compensation to families affected by floods and Ganga erosion have triggered fresh controversy in Baishnabnagar. The Kaliachak 3 block administration has issued notices to several people who allegedly received government compensation despite not being genuine victims. They have been given seven days to return the money, failing which legal action will be initiated.

The controversy centres on the one-time financial assistance of Rs 1.80 lakh announced by Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari during his visit to Manikchak last month. The assistance was intended for families whose homes were damaged by floods and Ganga erosion.

However, allegations surfaced that before Durga Puja, the compensation money was transferred to the bank accounts of a beneficiary associated with a functionary of Pardeonapur-Sovapur Gram Panchayat and several of his close associates. Many of those who allegedly received the money were reportedly not residents of the flood and erosion-affected areas.

The alleged irregularities sparked anger among genuine victims. Residents of Parlalpur, Anupnagar and Golap Mandalpara jointly staged protests and gheraoed the BDO office, demanding justice. They alleged that genuine victims were excluded from the beneficiary list while ineligible names were included through a nexus involving the Panchayat Pradhan and some members. They also alleged that the selection process involved monetary transactions.

Following the complaints, the block administration initiated an investigation. According to sources, more than four bank accounts belonging to ineligible beneficiaries have been identified. Bapi Haldar, BDO of Kaliachak III, said: "Notices have already been issued to several people. They have been given seven days to return the money. If they fail to do so within the stipulated period, legal action will be taken against them."

Meanwhile, Panchayat Pradhan Ruhul denied any involvement in the alleged irregularities. "I am not involved in any of this. I do not know what has happened," he said.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.