EC allows 'Rupashree' scheme to run

Kolkata: The Election Commission (EC) has given the nod to the state government to continue with its social scheme "Rupashree".

Chief Secretary Malay De has recently sought clarifications from the EC regarding the continuation of some of its schemes with the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) in place after the announcement of the Lok Sabha polls.

The Commission, a few days back, had granted permission to the state government to continue its "Somobyathi" scheme.

Under the "Rupashree" scheme that was launched in April 2018, one-time financial assistance of Rs 25,000 is given to the economically-stressed families at the time of their daughters' marriages.

In "Somobyathi", a one-time ex-gratia grant of Rs 2,000 is given to the bereaved family members of a deceased who are in extreme financial need.

It may be mentioned that a number of people had approached the state government informing about their difficulty as they were not getting benefits from certain schemes like "Rupashree", "Somobyathi" and the like.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had directed De to take up the matter with the EC as she felt that the MCC should not be a hindrance in running schemes of public interest that have been announced much earlier and are ongoing. She also expressed her concern over the sufferings of people with the stalling of such schemes.

"Marriages are settled much earlier and the rituals are performed as per the convenience of the family members. Similarly, an unfortunate death of a person may occur anytime. The Model Code of Conduct should not be a barrier in providing benefits under these schemes," Banerjee had reasoned.

A senior official of the state government informed that the government has also urged the Election Commission seeking an extension of procurement of potatoes from farmers by a week.

The dates for the purchase of potatoes from farmers was scheduled from March 1 to 17. However, with heavy rains affecting the potato cultivation, the state had sought extension till March 24.

"The EC is yet to respond to this plea," the official said.