Dhar (Madhya Pradesh): Even after multiple suspensions of officers in the tribal welfare department, many tribal students in Dhar district are left without basic provisions such as blankets and quilts, struggling to cope with the severe cold. This dire situation has sparked frustration among affected communities, highlighting ongoing issues within the tribal welfare department.

The troubles began in September when three children tragically died from electric shock in Sardarpur block, leading to the suspension of then-assistant commissioner Brajkant Shukla. Deputy collector Asha Parmar briefly took charge but was removed after 15 days, with district panchayat CEO Abhishek Chaudhary assuming responsibility.

However, corruption persisted and a clerk, Rajendra Javadekar, was removed but later reinstated, indicating a lack of accountability. Further complicating matters, clerk Rajesh Malviya was suspended for failing to act on a Rs 1.23 crore fund meant for the girls' education complex. His suspension prompted assistant director Satish Singh to express dissatisfaction, leading to his own suspension after media scrutiny revealed irregularities.

Despite these actions, the situation remains grim. Tribal children still lack essential items like dresses, books and quilts. The district panchayat CEO has reportedly received instructions to withhold funds from children's accounts, contradicting previous practices that ensured financial support for students.

The ongoing turmoil raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of leadership in the tribal welfare department and the urgent need for reforms to ensure that basic provisions reach the vulnerable children of Dhar district.