Money for govt houses? PMAY beneficiaries allege collection at Assam panchayat

Allegations of money being collected from beneficiaries in the name of allotment of houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) triggered protests at the Melekadhing Mukundati Gaon Panchayat under the Juria Development Block in Assam's Nagaon district.

According to the allegations, the husbands of women ward members from around eight wards of the panchayat allegedly collected Rs 2,000 each from some beneficiaries by promising them houses under the scheme.

The individuals allegedly invoked the name of the panchayat's Gram Rozgar Sahayak (GRS) while collecting the money, triggering widespread resentment among residents.

Angry villagers subsequently gathered at the panchayat office and staged a protest, demanding accountability. They also questioned the GRS over the alleged collection.

Responding to the allegations, the GRS clarified that nobody has the authority to collect money from beneficiaries in the name of PMAY houses. The official also urged beneficiaries not to pay money to anyone for securing a house under the government scheme.

The allegations have raised questions over whether people seeking housing assistance were allegedly being asked to pay money for access to a government welfare scheme.

Residents have called for an investigation to identify those involved and ensure appropriate action against anyone found guilty.