Distribution of Blankets in Jharkhand Faces Fraud Claims and Quality Issues
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Synopsis
The Jharkhand government has rolled out a blanket distribution initiative across its 24 districts, but the program is plagued by allegations of fraud and subpar quality. Complaints highlight discrepancies in supply and the actual quality of blankets, prompting calls for an investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Jharkhand government distributes blankets.
- Allegations of supply irregularities.
- Quality of blankets below standards.
- Former minister raises concerns.
- Investigation requested by state officials.
Ranchi, Jan 16 (NationPress) The Jharkhand government has initiated the distribution of blankets for the underprivileged across all 24 districts of the state, as winter nears its end. However, numerous complaints have emerged regarding the inconsistencies in the supply and quality of the blankets being distributed.
For the fiscal year 2024-25, the state government authorized the acquisition of 9,20,245 blankets at an approximate expenditure of Rs 30 crore. After the tender procedure, contracts were granted to Om Shakti Textiles from Panipat, Haryana, and Bihari Lal Chaudhary Tradelink Private Limited from Dhanbad.
The suppliers were expected to complete their deliveries by January 11, yet numerous districts have reported delays.
According to the tender requirements, the blankets were to be handloom-made with a composition of 70 percent wool and 30 percent synthetic fiber. However, many complaints indicate that powerloom-made blankets are being distributed instead.
Moreover, the wool content in various blankets is reportedly between 35-40 percent, significantly below the required standard.
The tender also mandated that the weight of the blanket after washing must be at least two kg. Inspections in various districts have revealed that several blankets weigh substantially less, ranging from 1,596 to 1,662 grams.
Former Minister and Jamshedpur West MLA Saryu Rai has expressed concerns regarding the discrepancies in blanket distribution in a letter to Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
He highlighted that despite an increase of Rs 75-100 per blanket compared to last year's price to ensure superior quality, suppliers have not met the necessary standards.
Rai alleged that roughly 90 percent of the supplied blankets are of inferior quality, while only 10 percent adhere to the tender's specifications.
He further accused the suppliers of presenting only those samples during inspections that meet the criteria.
Rai has called on the Chief Minister to launch a comprehensive investigation into the issue.
Director of the State Social Security Department, Sameera S., mentioned that Deputy Commissioners in various districts have been directed to investigate and guarantee adherence to the tender's specifications.
"If the blankets do not satisfy the established quality standards, they will be returned," she confirmed.
