Mayurbhanj, Oct 10 (UDN): A tribal family of four in Khadiasahi village under Bijatala block of Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district continues to struggle for basic necessities, living in a dilapidated mud house with only two walls while awaiting government housing assistance and a ration card.
Sanu Dehuri, a member of the Khadia community, lives in the fragile structure with his wife and two children. Despite the family’s vulnerable living conditions, they have yet to receive a house under a government housing scheme, leaving them exposed to harsh weather and the challenges of daily life.
The family’s plight has drawn attention to the difficulties faced by economically disadvantaged households in accessing welfare benefits intended to provide shelter and food security.
Temporary Relief, but No Permanent Solution
Following reports of the family’s condition, officials from the local panchayat and Bijatala tehsil provided a polythene sheet and 25 kg of rice as immediate relief. The family was also reportedly assured of a ration card under the government’s food security programme.
However, the promised ration card has not yet reached the household, while the family continues to wait for permanent housing assistance.
Describing their ordeal, Sanu said the family had little choice but to continue living in the damaged mud house, covered with a tarpaulin for protection.
He said the family faces particular hardship during the rainy season, when living in the fragile structure becomes even more difficult. With no alternative shelter, the four family members are compelled to remain in the unsafe dwelling.
Officials Promise Verification
Bijatala Block Development Officer (BDO) Bansidhar Khosla said the administration would look into the matter and verify the family’s eligibility for government welfare schemes.
According to the BDO, a team led by the Panchayat Executive Officer (PEO) would conduct the verification within a week. The administration would take further steps towards providing housing assistance if the family meets the prescribed eligibility criteria.
The official also said the administration would examine the existing beneficiary lists to determine whether the household had been included and whether it qualified for assistance.
Questions Over Welfare Delivery
The case has brought renewed attention to the gap between welfare assurances and their delivery at the household level. For families living in extreme deprivation, access to a secure home and subsidised food can be critical to their safety and survival.
For Sanu Dehuri and his family, the immediate assistance has offered some relief, but their larger concerns remain unresolved. They continue to await a permanent home and the ration card that could help them access food security benefits.
The administration’s proposed verification is expected to determine the next steps. Until then, the family remains dependent on temporary protection while hoping for a lasting solution to its housing and food security needs.