The Communist Party of India (CPI) has launched a sharp critique against the Tamil Nadu government for inordinate delays in implementing a crucial housing scheme meant for construction workers in the Madurai district. The party highlighted that numerous applications from eligible workers are stuck in bureaucratic limbo, depriving them of a promised financial grant.
Scheme Stalled at Taluk Office, Says Union Leader
At a meeting held in Madurai on Sunday, Nanda Singh, the district general secretary of the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC), pointed out the administrative bottleneck. He stated that many petitions for the housing scheme in Madurai are currently pending at the taluk office level, preventing workers from accessing the benefits. Under this government initiative, eligible construction workers are supposed to receive Rs 4 lakh to either build a new home or purchase land. However, this scheme has not been fully operationalised on the ground, leaving many in continued hardship.
Broader Land Title Crisis for Homeless Residents
The CPI leaders also brought attention to a wider, persistent issue concerning land titles for homeless individuals. Nanda Singh acknowledged that while the Chief Minister has granted some land titles, a significant number of residents living on government-owned lands are still waiting for their official patta documents. "We will take up the matter with the authorities," he asserted, indicating plans for further agitation and dialogue to resolve the entitlement delays.
Plans for CPI's Centenary Celebrations
The meeting, which was led by CPI state secretary M Veerapandian, also served as a platform to discuss preparations for the party's upcoming 100th-anniversary celebrations. The Madurai unit has decided on an elaborate observance plan:
- Host major celebration events across four regional centres in the district.
- Conduct a special ceremony to honour party veterans for their service.
- Launch a direct public outreach campaign where party members will use hundials (donation boxes) to raise funds from the public.
This grassroots campaign aims to strengthen the party's connection with citizens while mobilising resources for its activities.
