In Sanjeli, a town in the Dahod district of Gujarat, Congress workers have raised concerns over the repeated closures of Anganwadi centres. These centres are crucial for providing food and care to young children. Recently, there have been reports of locks being placed on several centres. This has led to protests by local Congress members, who claim that children are being deprived of their meals. Jayesh Sangda, a Congress activist, submitted a written complaint to the Taluka Development Officer (TDO). He highlighted that this is not the first time such closures have occurred. Just two months ago, there were similar protests, and last week, locks were observed again at Anganwadi centres.
The closures are affecting various villages in the Sanjeli area, including Chhamariya, Pratapura, and Kalyaanpura. Many children have been left without breakfast as these centres are shut. Parents report their children crying out for food but receiving no help. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) department is under scrutiny for this situation. Activists are questioning the decisions made by the officials, especially since many workers were sent to attend a government programme instead of running the centres.
Congress members have asked how long the Anganwadi centres will remain closed and whether there is a proper directive allowing these closures. They demand action against the supervisors responsible for this issue. The Congress party is concerned about the welfare of children, highlighting the government’s initiatives aimed at combating malnutrition. They stress that the closures contradict these efforts.
Local activists are also worried about the lack of accountability among the ICDS officials. They believe that the persistent closures indicate a severe mismanagement of the programme. The Anganwadi centres are meant to serve as a lifeline for young children, particularly those from low-income families.
The protests have sparked discussions in the community about the future of these centres. Many wonder if the situation will improve and whether the government will take action. The Congress party has promised to continue fighting for the rights of the children in the Sanjeli area, ensuring that they receive the necessary nutrition and support.
Overall, this situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced in India regarding child nutrition and welfare. The government has implemented various schemes to tackle malnutrition, but incidents like this raise questions about their effectiveness. The community is hopeful for a quick resolution so that the children can return to receiving their essential meals at Anganwadi centres.
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