Delhi MCD School Aid Delay Sparks Political Row Over Student Benefits
As the academic session draws to a close in New Delhi, a significant controversy has erupted over the delayed disbursement of the annual Rs 1,670 financial assistance intended for uniforms, stationery, and school bags for students enrolled in Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) schools. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has leveled serious allegations of widespread delays, while the BJP-led MCD administration has countered, stating that only approximately 30% of beneficiaries have not received the funds due to pending Know Your Customer (KYC) verification issues.
AAP Alleges Widespread Non-Payment Affecting Lakhs of Students
AAP's MCD co-in-charge, Praveen Kumar, has asserted that lakhs of students are still awaiting the crucial annual assistance. He claimed that although Rs 109 crore was earmarked for transfer to students' bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, only Rs 58 crore has been released so far. With final examinations concluding in February and the new academic session set to begin in April, Kumar emphasized that this delay effectively denies children the benefit during the current academic year.
"What purpose will the money serve once the academic year ends?" Kumar questioned, accusing the BJP of failing poor students. He highlighted that nearly 2.3 lakh children study in MCD schools, with the majority hailing from economically weaker sections of society, including families of street vendors and daily-wage labourers. Kumar alleged that instead of ensuring timely disbursal, the BJP is indulging in blame-shifting between the Delhi government and the MCD.
BJP-Led MCD Counters Claims, Cites KYC Hurdles
In response to these allegations, Yogesh Verma, the chairperson of the education committee, rejected claims of large-scale non-payment. Verma stated that around 70% of the total amount has already been successfully transferred to students' bank accounts. The remaining 30% is pending primarily due to bank account and KYC-related issues, which are being addressed through coordinated efforts.
Verma further explained that teachers, school principals, and parents have been instructed to collaborate in completing the necessary formalities to facilitate the earliest possible release of the remaining funds. Acknowledging that the academic session is nearing its end, he assured that all efforts are being made to ensure that every eligible student receives the financial assistance without further delay.
AAP Demands Immediate Action and Accountability
AAP leader Preeti Dogra has intensified the pressure, claiming that despite holding control over the mayoral post, the standing committee, and a majority in the MCD house, the BJP has failed to ensure that students receive their entitled benefits. Dogra has demanded the immediate release of the pending amount, stringent action against officials responsible for the delay, and the establishment of a fixed timeline to guarantee that funds are credited before the commencement of every academic session.
This dispute underscores the ongoing political tensions in Delhi's governance, with the welfare of underprivileged students caught in the crossfire. The situation highlights critical challenges in the implementation of welfare schemes, particularly concerning beneficiary verification and bureaucratic efficiency. As the deadline looms, stakeholders await a resolution that prioritizes the educational needs of Delhi's most vulnerable children.
