By TC News Desk
Agartala, 22nd May 2025: Residents of the government-run ‘Ashray’ pensioner residence operated by the Tripura State Social Welfare Board have been protesting since this morning demanding the removal of the in-charge and an immediate investigation into allegations of corruption and mental harassment.
The pensioners staged a demonstration in front of the residence alleging that the current administration has made decisions that severely affect their well-being. Speaking to reporters held later, they claimed that a meeting of the governing body was held yesterday, where several decisions were taken “against the interests of the elderly.”
“We cannot accept the decisions made in the meeting. These are not in our favour. There is widespread corruption and mismanagement in the residence and we demand immediate intervention,” said one of the protesting residents.
The elderly residents specifically accused in-charge Anita Saha, former committee leader Dhirendranath Chakraborty and staff member Preeti Debnath of mentally harassing pensioners. “Anita Saha speaks to us rudely and behaves in a way that is unacceptable for someone responsible for our care. She is unfit to run this residence. We want her removed,” said another elderly resident.
They also raised objections to a rent hike decision made on May 21, increasing the monthly rent from Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000. “We clearly told them that we cannot afford the increased rent. But no one listened,” they said.
Allegations also emerged of financial misconduct linked to a match-making initiative from a previous committee. Pensioners claimed they were charged Rs 7,000 each since 2021 with no accounts provided. “More than Rs 10 lakh has been embezzled and yet no investigation has been initiated,” one of the protesters stated. “We even met Minister Tinku Roy and highlighted the corruption, but nothing has been done.”
The protestors also complained about the poor quality of food served at the residence, urging the government and administration to take immediate steps. “If our voices are not heard, we will be forced to launch a bigger movement,” they warned.
“Good governance is being promised everywhere, but the reality is different. Even the minister’s assurance seems to be a lie,” said a resident in frustration.
