Demand to extend BPL application deadline in Pangi

The Pangwal Ekta Manch, a forum of Pangi people, has demanded the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, to extend the date for submission of below poverty line (BPL) application forms in the tribal valley. The organization has sought an extension of the deadline from April 30 to May 15, citing critical administrative lapses affecting local families.

Pangwal Ekta Manch chairman Trilok Thakur highlighted that the state government had initiated the BPL revision exercise in April 2025, requiring applicants to submit mandatory documents such as income certificates by the end of the month. However, many families in the Pangi area have reportedly been unable to obtain these certificates due to the non-availability of Patwaris (village revenue officials) in their respective circles.

Thakur said that out of eight sanctioned Patwari posts in Pangi tehsil, only one is currently functional. This shortage, the manch argues, severely hinders the ability of eligible families to meet documentation requirements, despite their entitlement under state welfare schemes.

He emphasised that in the absence Patwaris, the state government should immediately depute at least 2–3 Patwaris from neighbouring Churah and Chamba tehsils to issue the required income certificates. He said that if the deadline is not extended and no interim measures are taken, the affected families may resort to public protest against what they described as the State bureaucracy’s apathetic attitude.

We urge the government to take urgent corrective steps to safeguard the welfare rights of the tribal population in this remote and underserved region of Himachal Pradesh, said Thakur.

Himachal Tribune