Netrokona, Aug 28 (V7N) — A woman from Barhatta upazila in Netrokona district has filed a formal complaint alleging financial fraud linked to the Vulnerable Women Benefit (VWB) project. The victim, Lakima, a resident of Khachpara village in Ward 5 of Sahata Union, claimed that she was deceived with the false promise of receiving a VWB card in exchange for money.

According to the written complaint submitted to the Netrokona Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Lakima alleged that three months ago a local individual named Zubair, with the cooperation of Rafique Mia, the elected Union Parishad member of Ward 5, took Tk 5,000 from her in exchange for arranging a VWB card. Zubair reportedly told her that he would ensure the card's allocation through Barhatta Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Khabirul Ahsan and would also obtain the necessary signatures and approval from Rafique Mia.

However, when the final beneficiary list was published, Lakima’s name was missing. Her husband, Mizan Mia, then approached Zubair to demand the return of the money. Instead of complying, Zubair and Rafique allegedly threatened the couple with false legal charges and arrest.

When approached for comment, Zubair admitted to taking the money but insisted, “I will either manage another card or return the money.”

Rafique Mia, the UP member in question, stated, “I have also told Zubair to return the money if he cannot arrange the card.”

Responding to the incident, Netrokona Additional Deputy Commissioner Rafiquzzaman confirmed the receipt of the complaint. “We will verify the allegations and take appropriate action based on the findings,” he said.

The Vulnerable Women Benefit (VWB) program is a government social safety net initiative aimed at supporting disadvantaged women with food aid or cash transfers. Misuse of the program through fraudulent card distribution undermines the program's integrity and harms those it is designed to support.

Local residents have expressed concern over recurring allegations of corruption within social welfare programs and are calling for transparent investigations and stronger oversight to prevent further abuse.

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