During the Zero Hour in the Goa Assembly on Tuesday, Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas launched a sharp critique of the state government over persistent delays in disbursing funds under major welfare schemes. He urged the government to compensate affected beneficiaries with interest if payments are not made on time.
Raising the issue in the House, Viegas pointed out that beneficiaries of schemes such as Laadli Laxmi, Griha Aadhar, Dayanand Social Security (DSS), Senior Citizens Pension, and the Sea Farers Welfare Scheme have not received payments for two to three months—or even longer in some cases. He stressed that these delays are particularly harming the elderly, women, and economically weaker families who depend on these funds for daily sustenance.
“If the government is unable to ensure timely payments, it must pay interest to beneficiaries for the delay,” Viegas asserted. He described the ongoing delays as not only a financial burden but also an emotional strain for families whose survival depends on these payouts.
Viegas also held the Social Welfare Department accountable and questioned why such prolonged delays persist despite repeated promises from the government. He demanded immediate clearance of pending dues and a reliable schedule for future disbursements.
The issue garnered support from several opposition legislators, who echoed Viegas’s concerns and called on the ruling government to uphold the credibility of its social welfare programs. They emphasized that prompt and regular disbursement is critical to maintaining public trust and meeting the needs of vulnerable citizens.
With welfare schemes forming a vital support system for thousands in the state, the opposition urged swift action to prevent further hardship and ensure beneficiaries receive what is rightfully theirs without delay.