The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, a flagship scheme of the central government aimed at fulfilling the housing dreams of the common people, has recently come under scrutiny in Uttar Pradesh due to reports of misuse. In a controversial development, 11 women from various villages in the Maharajganj district have allegedly taken the first instalment of the scheme’s funds and absconded with their lovers.
These women received the initial instalment of ₹40,000 intended for the construction of their homes under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana scheme. However, instead of utilizing the funds for their designated purpose, they have reportedly left their husbands and eloped with their lovers. This incident has created a stir in the district, prompting the affected husbands to report the matter to the authorities.
The villages affected by this controversy include Thuthibari, Sheetlapur, Chatia, Ramnagar, Bakul Diha, Khasra, Kishunpur, and Medhauli. According to reports, approximately 2,350 beneficiaries in these villages received funds under the scheme, with many already having completed the construction of their homes. However, the actions of the 11 women have cast a shadow over the success of the initiative in this region.
In response to the allegations, the concerned department has decided to halt the disbursement of the next instalment to the accused beneficiaries. Officials have also indicated that they may seek the return of the funds, as the scheme includes provisions to reclaim money in cases of reported discrepancies.
This incident is not the first of its kind in Uttar Pradesh. A similar case was reported earlier in the Barabanki district, raising concerns about the implementation and monitoring of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana scheme aims to provide financial assistance to poor and middle-class families for the construction of permanent homes. Under the scheme, eligible families can receive up to ₹2.5 lakh, with disbursements made in instalments based on the progress of construction and the financial condition of the beneficiaries.
