Hundreds of ration card applicants gathered outside the Bhadrak block office from the early hours on Thursday, forming long queues in hopes of getting their names reinstated in the newly published ration card list. 

The queue reportedly stretched nearly one kilometre from the block premises, as hundreds gathered in response to the ongoing name inclusion process.

With limited days for re-registration and no alternative arrangements at the panchayat level, many applicants have resorted to waiting overnight to secure their spot.

Beneficiaries Voice Frustration Over Poor Management

“We have been standing here since 4 am to apply for ration cards for our children,” said Anjali, a beneficiary. 

“The conditions are extremely difficult, and there have already been two verbal clashes between applicants and officials,” she added further.

Another applicant, who had arrived at 2 am, said, “I came to apply for my wife’s ration card, but even after hours in the queue, I haven’t been able to register yet.”

Allegations of Mismanagement and Unfair Distribution

Several beneficiaries have alleged inconsistencies in how the process is being handled. Tapaswini Mallik remarked, “The counter opened at 7:30 am, but instead of distributing 100 tokens as announced, they gave out only 70. Why isn’t this process being conducted at the panchayat level to ease the pressure here?”

Pramila Nayak, who is in her ninth month of pregnancy, added, “This isn’t the first time I’ve come here. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to make these repeated visits in my condition.”

No Response from Administration Despite Chaos

Despite the overwhelming turnout, the block administration has yet to issue a formal response or implement crowd management measures.