Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge raises Odisha Anganwadi caste discrimination issue in Rajya Sabha

The issue of alleged caste-based discrimination at an Anganwadi centre in Odisha was raised in the Rajya Sabha by Congress chief and the Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday. During Zero Hour, Kharge flagged the incident from Nuagaon Anganwadi Centre in Rajnagar block of Kendrapara district, calling it a serious violation of constitutional values.

Kharge said that villagers have been boycotting the Anganwadi centre for the past three months after a Dalit woman was appointed as an Anganwadi helper, refusing to send their children there for meals. Terming the incident deeply disturbing, he said such practices amount to workplace caste discrimination, which is unconstitutional and also violates children’s right to education and nutrition.

“Caste discrimination at the workplace is a direct violation of the Constitution. Denying children access to Anganwadi services because of caste prejudice is unacceptable,” Kharge said, demanding a thorough probe into the matter.

According to reports, after the issue was highlighted by OTV, senior district officials including the Sub-Collector, Tahsildar, CDPO and District Welfare Officer visited the village to assess the situation. They attempted to hold discussions with villagers at the Anganwadi centre, but no residents turned up.

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Officials also verified the appointment documents of the Anganwadi helper and stated that her recruitment followed due process. The district administration said efforts are underway to resolve the issue and ensure normal functioning of the Anganwadi centre at the earliest.