JAMPUIJALA: An elderly tribal widow from Pramodnagar area under Jampuijala Block has appealed to Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha for the grant of a pension, citing extreme financial hardship.
Shobharani Debbarma, whose husband Khudiram Debbarma passed away nearly 30 years ago, has been living in dire poverty since his death. The elderly woman reportedly sustains herself by collecting bamboo shoots from the forest to sell or use for sustenance.
Speaking to the media after returning home from the forest, the visibly distressed widow appealed directly to the Chief Minister, urging him to ensure she is granted a pension to support her in her old age.
Locals familiar with her situation said she has been struggling for years without adequate state support, despite being eligible for welfare schemes meant for elderly and destitute citizens.
The matter has drawn attention to potential gaps in the delivery of social welfare benefits at the grassroots level, with residents calling upon the local administration to look into her case on humanitarian grounds and ensure she receives timely assistance.