Women Block Road Outside Kharagpur Municipality Over Annapurna Bhandar Benefits

Kharagpur, West Midnapore : Hundreds of women staged a protest in front of the Kharagpur Municipality alleging that they have been deprived of the benefits of the Annapurna Bhandar scheme despite submitting applications several times.

The protesters gathered outside the municipal gate and sat on the road, blocking traffic in the Jhapetapur area. The road remained congested for a long time, with buses, Totos (e-rickshaws) and other vehicles getting stuck due to the demonstration.

According to the protesters, their names have still not appeared on the beneficiary list despite repeated applications. They alleged that they are facing serious financial difficulties and struggling to arrange food for their families.

The women said that they were forced to take to the streets after their repeated appeals failed to bring any response. They demanded that the authorities look into the matter and ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive the scheme’s benefits.

Following information about the protest, police reached the spot and tried to control the situation and restore traffic movement.

The protesters warned that if their demands are not addressed soon, they would intensify their agitation in the coming days.