Netrokona, JUNE 03 (V7N) – Allegations of widespread irregularities and mismanagement have marred the distribution of Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) rice in various union parishads across Netrokona district over the past few days. On-site investigations on Sunday (June 1) revealed discrepancies in rice quantities, multiple card usage, and confrontational incidents at distribution points.

At the Bangla Union Parishad in Sinha, Sadar Upazila, an investigation at 11 am showed some individuals receiving rice multiple times using various cards, while others struggled to obtain any distribution cards despite repeated appeals to UP members. Furthermore, beneficiaries who were supposed to receive 10 kg of rice were given varying lesser amounts, ranging from 8 kg 800 grams to 9 kg or 9 kg 500 grams.

When confronted about the discrepancies, the administrator of the parishad and the social service officer of Sadar Upazila admitted to potential minor variations, stating, "I am giving it myself, if there is a little bit of this and that, what can be done. However, I am trying to distribute it properly. If someone gets less, please bring them, we will give them the same amount again."

The situation appeared even more dire at the Gohalakanda Union Parishad in Purbadhala Upazila, where a field investigation around 2 pm revealed what was described as the "most miserable condition" of VGF rice distribution. Cardholders there were reportedly receiving only 7.5 kg to 8 kg, with a maximum of 8.5 kg of rice.

During this investigation, a person holding a hand microphone vehemently denied any irregularities. When asked for his identity, he claimed to be a relative of a senior police officer and a parliamentary candidate from the Purbadhala constituency. However, numerous cardholders who had received less rice vocally protested against him, calling him a "Fatka Batpar" (a derogatory term implying a swindler or cheat) and a "rice thief."

A separate group then created a commotion, attempting to stop journalists from taking footage and claiming there were no irregularities. At one point, an unidentified individual from this group ominously declared, "This is Shyamganj's weapons cache. If you do more, we'll loot it. We've looted the police station, no one has been able to tear anything from us." The identity of this person could not be ascertained in the crowd.

When asked about the unknown person's disruptive behavior, Gohalakanda Union Parishad Chairman Anwar Hossain dismissed him as "just a rumor" and a "gossip" who "eats rice alive." He further alluded to a police officer in the group who "extorts all year round." Chairman Hossain stated that he was guarding the area with his people and there was "no room for irregularities," suggesting that any "twist in the middle" might have occurred when he "went a little to the side."

Meanwhile, Netrokona Deputy Commissioner Banani Biswas, when questioned about the alleged irregularities in VGF rice distribution, asserted that there was "no opportunity to provide less rice." She also confirmed that her office is currently investigating the allegations of irregularities.

These incidents highlight ongoing concerns regarding the transparency and fairness of VGF rice distribution programs, which are vital for supporting vulnerable populations, particularly during festivals like Eid-ul-Azha.

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