In Koppal district, Karnataka, two Anganwadi workers have been suspended after a video surfaced showing them taking back eggs from children’s plates during a midday meal. The video, which went viral, captured workers Lakshmi and Shainaja Begum distributing eggs to the children and then forcibly retrieving them shortly after, once photos and videos were taken. Eggs are a mandatory part of Anganwadi meals provided by the government.
The Women and Child Welfare Department responded swiftly to the incident, issuing a suspension order for the two workers and directing all Anganwadi staff to adhere to ethical practices. This move underscores the department’s commitment to addressing issues of misconduct and ensuring proper use of resources intended for children.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the conditions within Karnataka’s Anganwadi centers. Recently, a team led by District Sessions Judge C Chandrasekhara conducted inspections of 53 Anganwadis in Koppal and found several alarming issues. Discrepancies were noted, including discrepancies between the number of children reported in official records and the actual number enrolled. Cleanliness was another major concern, with many centers lacking basic facilities such as doors and toilets. Additionally, first-aid kits were discovered in the workers’ personal homes rather than being available on-site.
The inspections also revealed that official documents were often written in pencil, a practice that raises questions about the level of oversight and accountability in the Anganwadi system. These findings call for urgent reforms to improve the quality of services provided and ensure that resources are used effectively for the benefit of the children.