Saryu Roy Warns Hunger Strike Over PMAY House Delay

In a significant escalation of tensions surrounding delayed housing allotments under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), Saryu Roy has intensified pressure on local authorities, warning of a hunger strike if beneficiaries are not handed their house keys by the end of May.

Growing Frustration Over Delayed Housing in Birsanagar

At a high-attendance meeting held in Bistupur, Saryu Roy engaged directly with more than 75 beneficiaries awaiting possession of their homes in the Birsanagar PMAY project. Officials from Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee and Jharkhand Urban Infrastructure Development Company were also present, including Deputy Municipal Commissioner Krishna Kumar and Project Manager Dhananjay Kumar.

The core issue remains the incomplete infrastructure—particularly roads and drainage—which has stalled the final handover of residential units. Despite homes being structurally ready, the lack of basic civic amenities has prevented authorities from issuing occupancy clearance.

Hunger Strike Warning Raises Stakes

Taking a firm stance, Saryu Roy announced that he would begin a hunger strike on June 1 if the keys are not distributed by May 31. He emphasised that he has already communicated the urgency of the matter to the concerned state minister and urged immediate action to complete the remaining infrastructure.

He stated that once drainage and roadwork commence, he will push for an official inauguration and key distribution ceremony. However, he also pointed out that Jharkhand Urban Infrastructure Development Company has yet to formally hand over the project to the Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee due to these pending works.

Officials Cite Technical Delays

Project Manager Dhananjay Kumar from Jharkhand Urban Infrastructure Development Company explained that while the drainage tender has been finalised, it will take approximately one month to complete the work. He added that if road construction funds are delayed, temporary pathways using fly ash may be laid to provide basic access to residents.

Meanwhile, Krishna Kumar from Jamshedpur Notified Area Committee urged beneficiaries to remain patient and avoid unilateral actions, stressing that JNAC cannot assume responsibility until the project meets required standards.

Emotional Appeals from Beneficiaries

The prolonged wait has taken a toll on beneficiaries, many of whom voiced deep frustration and emotional distress. Some recalled promises made as far back as 2023 regarding housewarming ceremonies, which remain unfulfilled even in 2026.

Several attendees, including elderly individuals and women, expressed fear that they might not live to see the day they can move into their homes. In a symbolic gesture, beneficiaries demanded that keys be handed over immediately—even if they delay moving in—just to gain a sense of ownership and assurance.

Disparities in Electricity Meter Charges Spark Outrage

Another contentious issue raised during the meeting was the stark variation in electricity meter installation charges across different cities in Jharkhand. Beneficiaries claimed that while meters were provided free of cost in Ranchi and for ₹1,500 in Bokaro, residents in Jamshedpur are being asked to pay as much as ₹13,600.

Taking note of the discrepancy, Saryu Roy contacted the Bokaro Deputy Commissioner during the meeting to verify the claims and seek clarity on the pricing differences under what is supposed to be a centrally governed scheme.

What Lies Ahead

As the May 31 deadline approaches, pressure is mounting on authorities to expedite pending infrastructure work and resolve administrative bottlenecks. The threat of a hunger strike by a sitting MLA has added urgency to the situation, potentially drawing wider political and public attention.

For now, beneficiaries continue to wait—caught between assurances and delays—hoping that their long-promised homes will finally be handed over without further postponement.