Pulwama, Feb 28: Residents of Payer village in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district have lauded the local administration for their timely intervention to assist an elderly destitute living in dire conditions.
Abdul Gaffar Bhat from Payer village has been bedridden for the past few years, surviving without basic amenities in a dingy room after the demise of his wife, locals informed Rising Kashmir.
Meema Akhter, a resident of Payer, highlighted Bhat’s plight, mentioning his son’s inability to care for him due to mental health issues. She said Bhat managed to sustain himself when in better health, but his deteriorating condition left him reliant on the charity of villagers.
Witnessing Bhat’s struggles and his son’s absence from home, concerned villagers sought assistance from the district administration.
Their plea was promptly addressed by DC Pulwama Dr Basharat Qayoom and District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) Pulwama, Azhar Ameen.
A team of government officials visited Bhat’s residence to assess his situation and provide necessary support. DSWO Pulwama Azhar Ameen confirmed that Bhat received the medical examination and was subsequently relocated to an old age home in Anantnag, ensuring his immediate care and safety.
Furthermore, he revealed that the district administration plans to renovate Bhat’s house and furnish it with essential facilities before his eventual return.
The swift and compassionate response of the district administration won accolades from residents. “We appreciate this step by the district administration Pulwama, ” an elderly resident said. He praised authorities for coming to the aid of their fellow villager in dire straits.
The residents hope that the initiative by the local administration will help Bhat improve his living conditions.
