Women pour Sattu on road protesting poor quality in Nayagarh

Nayagarh: Alleging poor quality, large numbers of women of Nuagaon block in Nayagarh district poured huge quantity of Sattu on road as a mark of protest three days back.

The agitators also alleged irregularities in distribution of Sattu by Self Help Group (SHG) members.

“Insects and sand are being found in Sattu and the quality is very poor. Though we have brought the matter before district administration umpteen times, no step has been taken so far,” said an agitating woman.

“While the Sattu is being made with rice and wheat, the SHG members claim that various nutritious ingredients are mixed in Sattu,” said Manimkuta Samal, a villager.

Echoing similar views, Nuagaon Samiti member Ramesh Pradhan said, "Following complaints of poor quality of Sattu, I raised the issue in the meeting of Samiti members demanding an inquiry. Besides, I urged the district administration to cancel tender of the current agency supplying Sattu and float a new tender."

On the other hand, Nayagarh District Social Welfare Official Bhuleswar Kanhar refuted the allegations and said a five-member team has been formed to check the quality of Sattu.

"We have received the complaints. An investigation will be launched soon," said the social welfare official.