Gumtha Elderly: National ID Crisis Blocks Social Security Allowance in Nepal
26th March 2025, Kathmandu
Several elderly citizens in Gumtha village cannot receive their social security allowance due to a lack of national identity cards. Many seniors, including 85-year-old Khimta Ghodasaini and 70-year-old Tuli Sanjyal, have faced difficulties accessing their benefits. Without a citizenship ID, banks refuse to disburse the payments.
Gumtha Elderly National ID Crisis
Obtaining the required ID is a major challenge. The process involves traveling to Gamgadhi, the district headquarters, which takes two to three days. For many elderly individuals, this journey is physically exhausting and financially burdensome. As a result, they remain deprived of their rightful allowance.
Hardships Faced by Senior Citizens
The issue has severely impacted many elderly people in the area. Khamma Budha, 71, from Khatyad Khamale, has been unable to withdraw his allowance for the past year. He struggles to cover daily expenses due to the missing ID card.
Similarly, 84-year-old Chauli Budha cannot claim her benefits. Her health prevents her from traveling to Gamgadhi for the necessary documents. Many others share similar struggles, leading to frustration and distress.
Local Authorities Acknowledge the Problem
Chitrabahadur Budha, chairperson of Khatyad-5 Khamale, admitted that the national ID requirement has created obstacles. Machhapuchchhre Bank’s strict policy has left many elderly individuals without access to their funds.
In the ward, 145 elderly and single women are registered for social security benefits. However, most have not received their allowances due to incomplete documentation. Local authorities have yet to provide a solution.
District Administration Takes Initiative
Chief District Officer Kamal Prasad Pandey assured that relief is on the way. Authorities plan to set up an ID card distribution camp within the rural municipality. This initiative aims to make the process easier and help senior citizens receive their allowances without unnecessary hardship.
The struggle of elderly citizens in Gumtha highlights the need for better administrative support. Government agencies must ensure that senior citizens can access essential services without facing excessive challenges. -RSS
For more: Gumtha Elderly National ID Crisis
