Public outrage is mounting in a panchayat under Jagatballabhpur in Howrah district after the head of the Trinamool Congress dominated civic body disappeared from duties following the circulation of an “objectionable” video on social media.
The fallout has brought essential services to a grinding halt, leaving villagers struggling to access basic documentation and welfare schemes.
It has been over a month since the video — allegedly involving the female panchayat head — went viral on social media platforms, stirring controversy and mockery both inside and outside the panchayat. Since then, the head has been absent from office and according to sources, even fellow party members are either unwilling or unable to disclose her whereabouts.
Meanwhile, the impact of her absence is being acutely felt by residents. From applying for the government’s ‘Roopshree’ scheme —critical for families arranging their daughters’ weddings — to obtaining basic certificates, locals are hitting a dead end.
“The panchayat is virtually non-functional,” said Tapan Das, one of frustrated villagers, adding, “My daughter's wedding is next month and I can't apply for the Roopshree scheme. No one can help us. Where will we go?”
Panchayat members themselves have acknowledged the dysfunction, while residents grow increasingly angry. Opposition parties are reportedly using the situation to take political jabs at the ruling party and the morale within the panchayat has visibly dipped.
Local Trinamool Congress leader Zafar Mollah called for swift action: “Immediate steps must be taken against the panchayat head,” he said.
Jagatballabhpur Panchayat Samiti president Ranjan Kundu confirmed that multiple complaints have been submitted to the Block Development Officer (BDO). “Both panchayat and samiti members have formally complained. The BDO is aware,” he said.
BDO Utpal Das Muhuri responded that a general meeting would be convened soon to address the situation. Meanwhile, state food processing minister and local MLA Arup Roy emphasised that service delivery must resume. “People should not suffer. The panchayat must function. At the same time, the authenticity of the video must be verified.”
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