Allegations of irregularities have emerged in the distribution of financial assistance under the Matsyakara Bharosa scheme in Bapatla district, Andhra Pradesh. Local fishermen claim that people who are not part of the fishing community have been included in the beneficiary list, while some genuine fishermen have been left out.
59 Beneficiaries Questioned by Local Fishermen
The controversy has surfaced in Potti Subbaiah Palem village of Vetapalem mandal, where the beneficiary list reportedly includes 260 people.
According to the allegations raised by local fishermen, only 201 of the 260 listed beneficiaries are genuine members of the fishing community. They claim that the remaining 59 beneficiaries belong to other communities and may not be eligible for the assistance.
The fishermen further allege that the names of genuine fishing community members were removed from the list and replaced with those of other individuals.
Fisheries Department Staff Also Face Allegations
The affected fishermen have raised questions about the role of Fisheries Department staff in preparing and verifying the beneficiary list.
They allege that irregularities in the selection process have prevented deserving fishing families from receiving the financial assistance intended for them.
However, these claims have not been independently established, and no official findings confirming the alleged irregularities have been provided.
Fishermen Seek Fair Distribution of Financial Assistance
The Matsyakara Bharosa scheme is intended to provide financial support to eligible fishing families. Fishermen in Potti Subbaiah Palem are demanding that the beneficiary list be reviewed to ensure that the assistance reaches genuine beneficiaries.
They want the authorities to examine the alleged exclusions and inclusions, verify the eligibility of listed beneficiaries and take appropriate action if any irregularities are established.
The allegations have raised concerns about beneficiary verification and transparency in the implementation of fishermen welfare schemes.
An official inquiry and verification of the beneficiary list would help establish whether the claims are valid and ensure that eligible fishing families receive the assistance.