Anganwadi Workers Protest Inaction Over 'ICDS Project Fund Fraud' In Odisha

Cuttack: Alleging inaction by the district administration in connection with reported misappropriation in the funds of Athagarh Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Project, many anganwadi workers staged a demonstration outside the office of the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) here on Sunday.

According to sources, a District Programme Officer (DPO) named Anjana Mohanty reportedly embezzled funds worth around Rs 25 lakh which were allocated to ICDS Athagarh for payment of TA/DA to anganwadi workers, contingency fund, purchase of pre-school kit and school uniforms.

Taking cognizance of the allegations, the district administration directed a probe into the matter.

However, alleging inaction after the submission of the probe report to the Collector, a group of anganwadi workers took to streets over 15-point charter of demands while staging a dharna outside CDPO's office.

"DPO Anjana Mohanty has usurped Rs 2.37 lakh and Rs 3.62 lakh contingency funds for the year 2017-18 and 2018-19 respectively," alleged an agitating anganwadi worker, Nirmala Sethi.

Informed about the matter, Athagarh Tehsildar and Additional Collector reached the spot and held talks with the protesters. Athagarh Tehsildar Tapan Khuntia assured that appropriate action will be taken by the district Collector soon following which the dharna was withdrawn.