Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Jul 3: Narsi (55) and Muttu (57), two elderly sisters at Pithrody who were rescued in April this year after two decades of neglect, finally got a good home due to the collective efforts of social workers Vishu Shetty Ambalpady, Nava Chethana Yuvaka Mandala and women's help unit of the district hospital here.
"These two sisters took 67 long days to recover from their malnourished state and depression," said one of the social activists in a press meet at Brahmagiri.
The total cost of the house was Rs 2,19,000 and Vishu Shetty contributed Rs 1,50,000. Udyavar Navachethana Yuvaka Mandala members donated Rs 12,000 for the electricity connection.
Speaking at a press meet, Vishu Shetty said, "District SC/ST development department has huge amount of fund compared to some other departments, but unfortunately the district authority, tahsildar and even MLA did not show any interest towards rehabilitation of these two sisters. The negligent attitude of public representative is a matter of great disappointment. These representatives have failed to reach out to them. They have even failed to implement government privileges to these communities. At least now, the relatives of these two sisters have assured to take care of them."
The new well-furnished house has two beds, fans, chairs and Rs 3,000 will be given by donors. Bannanje Vidyalatha Shetty assures to contribute Rs 2,000 and Vishu Shetty will donate Rs 1,000 every month till they get the monthly allowance for elders. Other villagers have also agreed to support the family financially.
Speaking further, Vishu Shetty said, "The district authority and tahsildar informed that there was no such privilege available for rehabilitation under the law. If any problem occurs while staying in the same old house, compensation can be given to the family. Ironically, the officials have no interest in taking care of the poor. Even state commission for women also visited the spot but that was of no use. Humanity seems to dwindle day by day," he concluded.