A controversy has erupted in South 24 Parganas’ Ghutiari Sharif over the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, with allegations of beneficiaries receiving only 70% of the promised amount. A woman named Aklima filed a complaint on Monday, accusing a local online shop owner, Rajib Sheikh, of deducting ₹300 every month from her ₹1000 allowance. This month, he allegedly took the entire ₹1000.

The local business association and panchayat member have assured an investigation into the matter. The incident has raised concerns about the misuse of funds meant for women’s welfare under the state government’s flagship scheme. Authorities have promised to take strict action if the allegations are proven true, emphasizing the need for transparency in the distribution process.