A young entrepreneur from Jammu Kashmir has appealed to the Chief Minister for intervention in releasing a long-overdue payment under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) program.
The payment, pending for over four years, pertains to supplies made for the celebration of International Girl Child Day in Baramulla district.
Faizan Mohammad, Director of M/S Samzan Pvt Ltd, had provided baby gift kits, sanitary pads, banners, and other materials for the event, which were documented and distributed among beneficiaries.
As per an official order dated May 1, 2024, and subsequent communications, accessed by The Kashmiriyat, the stock register maintained by the District Programme Officer (DPO), ICDS Baramulla, confirms the receipt and use of the materials.
The celebration was conducted with significant pomp and show, involving items such as HP notebooks, tablets, carry bags, invitation cards, and banners.
The expenditure also included ₹4.22 lakhs for refreshments, ₹0.49 lakhs for tent and chair rentals, ₹14.74 lakhs for baby gift kits, and ₹3.44 lakhs for stationery. Despite the detailed record, the payment to Faizan’s firm and others remains stalled, as per the order.
The Lok Adalat had earlier ruled in favor of Faizan, directing authorities to release the payment within 30 days, However, the directives remain unimplemented.
In a recent letter from the DPO to the Deputy Commissioner, the matter was highlighted once again, indicating that funds received during the period for the BBBP scheme had been directly transferred to the Deputy Commissioners by the Ministry.
The current DPO, Yaar Ali Khan (JKAS), asboer Faizan, has failed to prioritize the matter, reversing progress made by the former DPO, who ensured the legitimacy of the claims.
The delay has forced Faizan to escalate the matter through legal channels and public appeals.
In his plea to the Chief Minister, Faizan called for action to ensure the prompt release of dues and accountability for the officials responsible for the delay.
“This is not merely a financial issue but a test of the government’s resolve to support young entrepreneurs and uphold the law,” said Faizan.