Allegations of Embezzlement in Calf Distribution Project for Needy Women

Local Correspondent

Allegations of mismanagement and embezzlement have emerged regarding the “Distribution of High-Breed Calves to Ultra-Poor Women” project in the Rail Bazaar area of Mulgram Union, Chatmohar, Pabna. Despite a budget allocation of Tk 5 lakh and a promise to provide calves to 10 disadvantaged women, beneficiaries claim they received nothing beyond a photo session and a meal.

On December 30, the NGO Human Service Development Organization, funded by the Bangladesh NGO Foundation (BNF), initiated the project. Beneficiaries were invited to a training session, during which they were handed calves for photographs. After the event, the calves were returned to the farm, and the women were sent home with assurances of later delivery.

Khushi Khatun, a listed beneficiary, expressed disappointment, stating that while she participated in the program and posed with a calf, she received no tangible support other than a meal. Another beneficiary echoed similar frustrations, revealing that promises made during the event remain unfulfilled. A local driver confirmed that the calves were transported back to their original farm after the session.

Chatmohar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Musa Naser Chowdhury stated he was unaware of the details but assured an investigation if complaints arise. Mostafa Kamal Bhuiyan, Deputy General Manager of the BNF, said Tk 3 lakh had been disbursed initially, with the remaining Tk 2 lakh contingent on a satisfactory project report. He emphasized that any irregularities would result in appropriate action.

MS Alam Babul, Executive Director of the Human Service Development Organization, denied any wrongdoing, asserting that some beneficiaries would receive calves in the next phase and additional women were included for training. However, local residents remain skeptical, suspecting the project funds are being misused. They believe the NGO might act to provide the promised calves following media scrutiny.