NHRC issues notice to Bihar Govt

New Delhi, Aug 7: The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) today issued a notice to Bihar government for alleged irregularities in Indira Awas Yojana and rehabilitation of rescued child bonded labourers.

"The Commission has taken cognizance of alleged misappropriation of funds, earmarked for constructing houses under Indira Awas Yojana in Manpur Block of Gaya District, Bihar.

"Allegedly, villagers received only Rs 50,000 in two installments under the scheme to construct their houses. Also, despite mandatory requirement, the Indira Awas Yojana houses had no toilets," the NHRC said in a statement.

The financial assistance provided under Indira Awas Yojana for construction of a new house is Rs 70,000 in plain areas and Rs 75,000 in hilly and difficult areas.

Financial assistance for upgradation of Kutcha or dilapidated house is Rs 15,000 and financial assistance for acquiring house site is Rs 20,000. Further, the Commission said that the sub-primary health centre in the Manpur Block was allegedly mismanaged as the doctors were not available and the entire building was purportedly being used for residential purposes.

"Also, several child labourers belonging to the District rescued from Jaipur were yet to be rehabilitated and provided education. One boy, named Irfan Ali, aged 12 years, of Manpur Block, also rescued from Jaipur was yet to be rehabilitated and provided treatment," the Commission said.

The Commission has issued a notice to the District Magistrate, Gaya asking him to look into the issues and submit an action taken report within four weeks. The Chief Secretary of the State has also been asked to send his comments on the issues within four weeks.

PTI