A controversy has erupted in Malkangiri district’s Mathili office of the Women and Child Development Department, after allegations surfaced that an Anganwadi worker was humiliated and asked to apologise by folding her hands during a training programme.
According to reports, Anganwadi worker Radhamani Nayak from Kaliaguda sector attended a training session on August 29. When health and ASHA workers under her centre were found absent, supervisors allegedly expressed displeasure. Despite claiming no fault of her own, Radhamani said she was compelled to fold her hands and apologise to pacify the situation.
She further alleged that officials later asked her to remove her slippers, keep aside her vanity bag, and apologise again by folding her hands. The incident sparked outrage among Anganwadi workers, who staged a sit‑in protest near Mathili Hanuman temple and later submitted a written complaint to CDPO Aliva Pattnayak.
Workers claimed they felt insulted even during the complaint submission, leading to tension at the office premises. The Anganwadi union has demanded a neutral investigation and strict action if the allegations are proven true.
Meanwhile, CDPO Aliva Pattnayak stated she has informed higher authorities about the matter. All eyes are now on the departmental inquiry to establish the facts and accountability.
