A 66-year-old woman in Purulia district of West Bengal has been forced to take shelter in a toilet, which was built under the government’s campaign to stop open defecation.
The confines of a makeshift home of 4 feet by 3 feet became Mithila Mahato’s home after she lost her house in last year’s rain.
Mahato, who is a resident of Sundradi village in the district, is survived by her daughters. They are settled at a distant place. She lost her husband long ago and lived alone in a modest mud house.
However, hell broke loose on her when her humble abode was hit by torrential rains, leaving her destitute and homeless.
She approached the local authorities for help. However, as a temporary solution she was provided a plastic canopy.
Since Mahato was left with no viable alternatives, she sought refuge in a government-provided toilet.
The woman claimed that the administration did not come for her rescue, although she approached them several times.
She, reportedly, laments about space crunch as she has difficulty while sleeping. And yet, Mahato has managed to survive in that condition.
As the plight of Mahato has grabbed attention, local officials expressed concern and promised to help.
The village head, Chandmoni Koranudi, reportedly, said that he does not remember Mahato approaching him for help. Although now that he knows about it, he will try to help her in whichever way possible.
Nivedita Mahato, the chief of Purulia Zilla Parishad, has asserted that the administration cannot provide her house at present. However, a tent was provided on the woman’s request.
It has been learnt that the woman did not apply for benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana scheme.
No comment has been sought from the district magistrate, yet.
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