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Imran Khan in Bhubaneswar
Despite the death of at least 20 tribals due to starvation in the last two weeks in Kashipur block of Raygada district of Orissa, rice meant for the 'Food for Work' programme is yet to reach the area.
The Special Relief Commissioner in his report to the state government brought out this disturbing fact.
After visiting three villages -- Pilamala, Panasguda and Pitajodi -- of Kashipur block, where starvation deaths occurred, SRC Hrusikesh Panda submitted his report to the state government.
The rice was to have reached the area by August 30.
The SRC in his report has also pointed about large-scale irregularities in the public distribution system in Kashipur.
The SRC added due to the disputes among the contractors, the 'Food for Work' programme has not started in some areas.
The report speaks volume about the ground reality in Kashipur, despite state government claims that welfare and developmental programmes were being carried out.
State Revenue Minister Biswabhusan Harichandan, after visiting Kashipur on August 31, claimed that 'Food for Work' programme had already started in Kashipur block from April this year.
He also claimed that the public distribution system was also functioning smoothly.
The state government, however, is claiming that the 20 tribals died after eating contaminated and poisonous mango kernel.
SRC Panda in his report has mentioned that only Rs 1.5 million has been granted for 'Food for Work' programme in the area.
He has also stressed the need for stringent disciplinary actions against those found guilty of misappropriation.
The report also mentions that local contractors were demanding more money to undertake the project earmarked for the 'Food for Work' programme.
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