Kharibari, 11th May: A case of high-handedness has come to light involving a tea garden owner in Kumarsingh Jote, under the jurisdiction of Kharibari block. The accused, identified as Biswajit Chowdhary, allegedly seized a government-funded drinking water well for his personal gain.
According to reports, the well was constructed during the 2015-16 financial year for the benefit of the local community. Kharibari Collective Development Officer, in collaboration with the Border Area Development Fund, undertook the initiative. However, it has now been brought to attention that Biswajit Chowdhary reportedly closed and locked the well, depriving the locals of access to this vital source of water.
In response to the allegations, the tea garden owner refuted the claims, asserting that he did not close the well. According to him, it was the government who locked it. He further justified his position by stating that since the well is situated on his property, he should be entitled to reap the benefits it provides. Meanwhile, Kharibari BDO, Niranjan Barman, has assured the affected locals that appropriate measures will be taken to address the issue.