Guwahati: Pratibandi Suraksha Sangstha, Assam Protests against Government Apathy

Staff reporter

Guwahati: The streets of Dispur witnessed a massive outcry on Tuesday as over 500 specially-abled persons, under Pratibandi Suraksha Sangstha, Assam (PSSA), staged a protest against the Assam government’s abrupt discontinuation of Deen Dayal Divyangjan Pension Scheme and Orunodoi scheme benefits for the month of June. Accusing the government of betrayal and deception in the name of promises.

The demonstrators began their march from Dispur Super Market to Janata Bhawan, demanding immediate restoration of financial aid and justice for thousands of specially-abled individuals left without support. The protestors submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister through Joint Secretary Social Justice & Empowerment Sushmita Kakoti, in the presence of Mrinal Deka, Deputy Commissioner of Police (East).

PSSA secretary Nripen Malakar, strongly criticized the government, stating that while the authorities are pre-occupied with the future of ministers and legislators post retirement, they have completely ignored the plight of the disabled. “Thousands are being denied their constitutionally assured entitlements. The June installment of the Orunodoi scheme was stopped without any explanation—this is nothing but a reckless decision,” he said.

Malakar added that the government’s indifference has forced many disabled individuals into distress, compelling them to take to the streets just to ensure two meals a day.

The protesters made several key demands, including the immediate release of withheld Orunodoi funds, the removal of the current Director of Social Justice and Empowerment for alleged incompetence, and the appointment of a new director who is sensitive to disability-related issues. They also called for regular salaries and timely provision of food and infrastructure funds in special schools for the disabled—particularly Assam’s only higher secondary school for the visually impaired in Guwahati.

Additionally, the protesters demanded proper housing facilities for financially weak disabled individuals and others.

Also Read: Assam:PSSA condemns rape of mentally challenged woman in Sribhumi Jail

Also Watch: