Dozens of poor families in Gutlibagh area of Kangan belt in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal staged a protest as they have alleged that they have been categorised in Above Poverty Line (APL) category despite being poor.
Families have alleged that many people in the area who are living above the poverty line have been categorised in Below Poverty Line (BPL) list by officers on basis of nepotism and favouritism.
They said that we despite living a life Below Poverty Line have been categorised into the APL list and have been deprived of everything.
“Despite being living Above Poverty Line but holding BPL ration cards have availed every opportunity for them and they are getting free ration besides other benefits from months,” they said.
Locals staged a protest at DC Office Ganderbal and were demanding authorities to look into the matter and issue BPL cards in our favour.
“We have approached concerned authorities several times but to no avail despite,” they said.
Bashir Ahmad is one of the head of the affected family who is not physically well because he is having stitches in his leg. He said, “how can I afford to buy food (ration) from APL ration card, I need money for my medicines also. It is very unfortunate and difficult for me to feed my family.”
