Voter of independent India’s First General Election finally gets support as BTC steps in

A voter from independent India’s first general election has finally received official support, as the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) administration stepped forward to assist 120-year-old Narmada Devi of Rajagarh village in Dimakuchi.

BTC councillor Paul Toppo has taken responsibility for the centenarian, who had earlier drawn attention after making an emotional appeal for a government house. Despite her age and historical significance as a voter in the country’s first general election, Narmada Devi had reportedly not benefited from any government welfare scheme for decades.

For a long time, she had been living in a dilapidated, hut-like structure with her grandson, struggling without institutional support. Her life story—having witnessed India’s freedom movement firsthand and yet remaining deprived of basic amenities—came to light after being widely highlighted by the media, triggering public concern and reactions.

Responding to the situation, Paul Toppo, councillor of the Nonai Serfang constituency, visited her residence along with departmental officials and party workers. On behalf of the BTC administration, he assured the elderly woman of all possible assistance.

During the visit, the councillor issued immediate directions to the local Village Council Development Committee (VCDC) and concerned officials to construct a permanent house for her. He further announced that all applicable welfare schemes under the BTC would be extended to Narmada Devi. In addition, her caregiver grandson will receive a one-time assistance of ₹2 lakh under the BTC skill development scheme.

The intervention comes at a time when there was widespread criticism over the failure of welfare schemes to reach the elderly woman for so many years. With the BTC administration now stepping in, locals have expressed satisfaction that due attention is finally being given to a living witness of India’s early democratic history.

Currently, Narmada Devi continues to reside in a modest hut at Rajagarh, Dimakuchi, along with her grandson and granddaughter-in-law, awaiting the promised support to translate into action.

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