Villagers in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar district have launched a unique campaign to remind a local TMC leader of her promise to return alleged “cut money” collected from beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana by June 4.
Residents of Ghughumari Gram Panchayat have been making loudspeaker announcements across the village, repeatedly reminding people—and TMC panchayat member Jyotsna Barman—about the refund deadline. Villagers have also organized marches carrying placards demanding the return of the money.
The protesters allege that beneficiaries of the housing scheme were forced to pay commissions ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000 to secure benefits and avoid delays in receiving future installments. Many families reportedly paid the money out of fear.
The agitation began after villagers staged a protest outside Barman’s residence. According to local sources, the protest was temporarily withdrawn after local TMC leaders assured residents that all the alleged “cut money” would be refunded by June 4.
Determined to ensure the promise is kept, villagers have turned the public address system into a daily reminder campaign. They have warned that if the refunds are not made by the deadline, fresh protests will be launched. The issue has gained attention amid the changing political landscape in the state, with residents demanding accountability and the return of allegedly extorted funds.
