Assam: Orunodoi scheme sparks controversy in Boko amid allegations of sexual exploitation and corruption

Serious allegations have surfaced from Mayar Chora village in Boko, Kamrup district, casting a shadow over the implementation of the Assam government’s flagship welfare initiative, the Orunodoi scheme. A woman from a financially weak household has accused a local political figure of demanding sexual favors in exchange for scheme benefits.

The accused has been identified as Puryya Boro, booth president of the BJP in Mayar Chora village. The woman claims she was promised inclusion in the beneficiary list of the Orunodoi scheme only if she agreed to an illicit relationship with the official. Her allegations highlight a disturbing misuse of power and exploitation of vulnerable individuals.

In addition to the sexual harassment claims, several other residents, especially women, have raised complaints about having to pay bribes ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,000 to secure their names in the scheme’s list. Many families allege that their names were arbitrarily removed from the list, despite fulfilling all eligibility criteria.

These revelations come at a time when the Assam government continues to reiterate its commitment to a "zero tolerance" approach toward corruption. However, repeated instances of malpractice under the Orunodoi scheme are undermining public confidence in its transparency and fairness.

Locals have expressed deep concern that political affiliations may protect wrongdoers from facing justice. The victim, through the media, has appealed directly to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to intervene in the matter and ensure that such violations do not go unpunished.