Villagers protest locked Anganwadi center in Jahangirabad, demand action

Villagers of Gurawali in Jahangirabad block staged a protest on Wednesday after finding their local Anganwadi center locked. The residents expressed anger over the center being shut for several months, despite repeated complaints to the Child Development Project Officer (CDPO) of Jahangirabad. They alleged negligence by the Anganwadi workers and demanded immediate action.

According to complainants Vicky Singh, Shripal, Sukhpal Singh, Pintu Singh, Premsingh, and Anil Kumar, the workers at the center have not only ignored their responsibilities but also threatened them with false legal cases when approached with complaints. The villagers claimed that the center has failed to distribute nutritional supplements to children and remains inaccessible to the community.

The issue was escalated to the Chief Minister's portal, prompting Jahangirabad supervisor Babita Singh to inspect the center. During her visit, she found the center locked and both Anganwadi workers absent. Singh reportedly reprimanded the workers over the phone and directed them to reopen the center. However, the villagers allege that no action has been taken, and the center remains closed.

In response to the complaints, Supervisor Babita Singh confirmed that the salaries of the two Anganwadi workers have been withheld, and notices have been issued seeking explanations. She stated that further action will be taken if the workers fail to respond to the notices.

The villagers have warned that if strict action is not taken against the workers, they will escalate the matter to the District Magistrate. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about the functioning of Anganwadi centers in rural areas, which play a crucial role in providing early childhood care and nutrition.