Bandipora, 31 Oct (KNS): In Bandipora, numerous applicants seeking assistance through marriage schemes are experiencing prolonged delays due to longstanding staff shortages in the Social Welfare Department. Many applicants, who submitted their forms a year ago, report that their applications remain untouched.

 

One applicant shared that her family was relying on the funds to support her marriage expenses. Unable to access the assistance on time, they resorted to taking out a loan, now repaid monthly with interest, adding financial strain. Several other young women echoed similar experiences, stating that families often turn to high-interest loans to cover marriage costs, which they struggle to repay.

 

Data from the Kashmir News Service indicates that six positions have remained unfilled in various social welfare offices in Bandipora, Sumbal, and Gurez.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelThese include roles such as Tehsil Social Welfare Officers, along with social workers and assistants. Sources within the department confirm that hundreds of applications have been in limbo for months.

 

Abdul Salam, a local resident, expressed gratitude for government programs designed to assist low-income families. However, he emphasized that the lack of staff in these offices has caused extended waiting periods. 

 

He appealed to LG Manoj Sinha, Social Welfare Minister Sikana Itoo, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to address the issue and help resolve their grievances. (KNS)