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Rahul's promises unkept, says Kalavati

Last updated on: June 09, 2009 19:06 IST
One year after Kalavati hit the headlines after Rahul Gandhi highlighted her plight in the parliament, the frail looking woman wants another endorsement from the Congress leader so that his promises to her are translated into action.

Kalavati says she needs a certificate from Gandhi, who visited her hut in Vidharbha region and promised her a house, so that officials do not turn their face away when she goes to them trying to get the promises.

"Everybody knows that Rahulji has come to my house. But nobody is listening to me. I now want a certificate of endorsement from Rahulji so that I can show it and get help," she told media persons in New Delhi on Tuesday.

The widow of a farmer, Kalavati got national attention after Gandhi pointed out her plight during the trust vote debate in the Lok Sabha. She has a cumulative debt of Rs 90,000 taken from a number of relatives and other lenders.

"After Rahul's visit, many officials came to my place and promised me many things but nothing happened. I want the promise of a house for me to be fulfilled," she said releasing an 'All India People's Manifesto' brought out by a Non-Government Organisation in New Delhi.

Kalavati also pitched for a health facility and an English medium school with computers in her village. On the delay in getting a house, Kalavati said, "When I go to panchayat officials, they say you go to Block Development Officer. The BDO says it is not under his purview." She is likely to meet Gandhi on Thursday.

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