In Cooch Behar district of West Bengal, villagers have employed loudspeakers to hold a local Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader accountable for a promise to refund “cut money” by June 4. This initiative has transformed the village’s loudspeaker system into an instrument of public oversight, constantly reminding residents and the TMC leader of the expected repayment deadline.

The term “cut money” generally refers to unofficial commissions allegedly solicited by local politicians or middlemen in West Bengal to expedite government welfare benefits and developmental investments. The village’s residents have resolved to ensure this issue remains front and centre by broadcasting reminders throughout the area.

The loudspeaker announcements regarding the return of “cut money” were first made at Booth No 173 in the Ghughumari Gram Panchayat, shortly after villagers gathered to protest outside the residence of TMC panchayat member Jyotsna Barman.

Allegations of Forced Payments for Welfare Benefits

Residents have alleged that under the previous TMC regime, beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana were coerced into paying commissions amounting to between Rs 5,000 to Rs 25,000 to receive their entitlements and avert delays. Many families reportedly felt compelled to make these payments due to the prevailing fear of repercussions.

In the aftermath of the Assembly elections, where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ended the TMC’s 15-year governance, villagers have heightened their protests. They are collectively demanding the return of the extorted funds, leading to increased scrutiny towards local leaders.

The recent protests reflect a culmination of residents’ frustrations and their desire for accountability after feeling mistreated in a political climate of alleged corruption. As part of their ongoing demonstrations, villagers have also organised marches displaying placards, serving as a visual reminder to Barman about her commitment to return the “cut money.”

Community Monitoring of Promised Refunds

Local sources indicate that the protests were temporarily halted after Barman, alongside other community leaders, reassured villagers that all funds would be refunded by the stipulated date of June 4. This pledge appears to have motivated residents to keep the issue alive within community discussions and public announcements.

Through the use of the village’s public address system, residents are not just voicing their demands but are also reinforcing the timeline for action. This approach aims to ensure that the promise is not overlooked and that community members remain vigilant in monitoring the situation.

With the deadline approaching, villagers have expressed a commitment to observing developments closely. They have indicated that if the promised repayments are not fulfilled by June 4, they are prepared to initiate further protests to assert their demands. The collective resolve highlights the community’s determination to ensure accountability in local governance and safeguard their rights.

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