Agartala, 29th June 2026: Serious concerns have emerged over the deplorable condition of the Betangi Creche Centre in East Tilthai under the Jubarajnagar assembly constituency, which is managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Social Education. The childcare facility, established to provide a safe environment for children of working-class and daily-wage-earning families, has allegedly turned into an unsafe place due to severe infrastructure problems.
Parents and local residents have expressed deep resentment over the condition of the centre, claiming that the purpose of the government scheme is being compromised. According to them, the building has become hazardous, with cracks appearing on the walls, plaster falling off, and the roof structure deteriorating. The tin roof has several holes, causing rainwater to enter the room and making it difficult for children to sit, eat, or rest.
The most alarming issue is the poor condition of the wooden beams supporting the roof. Locals fear that the rotten structures may collapse anytime, putting the lives of children at risk. The centre also lacks basic facilities such as proper bedding, a functional kitchen, safe drinking water arrangements, and a hygienic toilet facility.
A worker at the centre stated that around 25 children from nearby villages attend the creche daily, most of whom are children of labourers and working-class parents. Since their parents leave home early for work, the centre remains their only place of care and safety.
However, the absence of electricity has worsened the situation. With no fans or lights, children suffer extreme heat during summer under the tin roof, while rainfall creates waterlogging inside the room. The centre is also surrounded by dense vegetation, creating risks from snakes and other dangerous creatures. There is no boundary wall, increasing concerns over children’s safety.
The centre is reportedly functioning with only one worker and one helper, making supervision of 25 children extremely difficult. Parents have also raised allegations regarding irregularities in food supplies, claiming that children are not receiving the items allocated under government provisions.
Guardians and residents have demanded an immediate inspection, renovation of the centre, installation of electricity, improvement of kitchen and toilet facilities, construction of a boundary wall, recruitment of adequate staff, and proper supply of nutritious food and play materials for children’s overall development.
