Nabanna launches Aadhaar camps to curb fraud in Banglar Awas Yojana fund distribution

The West Bengal government has launched a detailed verification process to ensure transparency and prevent fraud in the distribution of funds for the Banglar Awas Yojana. Set to begin disbursements on December 15, the state will carry out these payments only after verifying the eligibility of beneficiaries through special verification camps. These camps will be set up across all village panchayats, where applicants will undergo identity, document, and bank account verification using Aadhaar-based authentication.

The verification process will include confirming the applicants' names, addresses, and bank details, with cross-checks through the Aadhaar system. Additionally, an OTP will be sent to the mobile number linked to the applicant's Aadhaar to ensure their identity. Only after completing these checks will the funds be transferred to the approved beneficiaries' accounts. A dedicated portal has been created to manage the verification process, ensuring accurate data management and coordination between the panchayats and Block Development Offices (BDOs).

The decision to implement these camps follows concerns raised over the mismanagement of public funds in previous schemes. Specifically, the Taruner Swapno project, which aimed to distribute tablets to students, saw widespread allegations of embezzlement. This resulted in several arrests and intensified the call for tighter controls on government-funded projects. To address these concerns, the West Bengal government has implemented these safeguards in the Banglar Awas Yojana to ensure that only valid beneficiaries receive the funds.

In the past, the central government had halted funds for the Banglar Awas Yojana, citing issues with corruption. In response, the state government decided to independently manage and distribute the funds for the housing scheme. The verification process is a key component of this effort, and the government aims to ensure that public resources are used appropriately and effectively.