2 women attempt selfimmolation to protest delay in fund release

Women heads of two Muslim families, who were selected beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna, tried to immolate themselves near the district collectorate in Latehar on Monday protesting delay in fund release.

However, timely action by the police team led by Latehar police station officer in-charge, Ramesh Singh, prevented them from ending their lives.

The affected families had earlier intimated the authorities regarding their decision to take their life as the Latehar urban civic body officials allegedly refused to release funds, citing dispute on the land selected for construction of homes.

The resentment assumes significance as the Raghubar Das government has repeatedly directed the concerned officials to fix target and ensure timely completion of construction of houses under the PM Awas Yojna before the Jharkhand’s foundation day on November 15.

Sarwari Begum and Rezina Khatoon alleged that the urban civic body officials were not releasing funds despite repeated requests.

The duo further said that the inordinate delay had forced them to remain homeless for past one year as they were ordered to dismantle their homes soon after their selection as beneficiaries under the ambitious housing scheme for the poor.

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