Two face salary withholding for demanding bribes in Subhadra Yojana

Bhubaneswar, Sept 6: In response to reports of bribe demands related to the Subhadra Yojana application process, the Kendrapara district administration has taken decisive action by withholding the salaries of two Anganwadi workers. This move underscores the Odisha government's commitment to combating corruption within the scheme’s implementation.

The action follows allegations that the Anganwadi workers solicited money for application forms and charged additional fees for assisting uneducated individuals in filling them out. Pushpalata Panda, one of the accused workers, is also reported to have mistreated female applicants and issued threats, while another worker from Derabish Saradeipur allegedly refused to provide application forms to people.

Additionally, two Jana Seva Kendras have been reprimanded for similar complaints of demanding money from applicants. The Odisha government has instructed district Collectors to investigate these practices and enforce strict measures against any corrupt behavior.

The Department of Women and Child Development issued a letter to Collectors, urging a thorough investigation into the allegations. "Feedback from the Subhadra toll-free helpline indicates that some Anganwadi workers are demanding payments for application forms and assistance," the letter states. "We request that you investigate these allegations and take firm action against any ICDS staff involved in such corrupt activities to ensure the effective implementation of the Subhadra Scheme."