KOCHI: The promises in the Left Front manifesto for the backward class development department remain unfulfilled even as the government is close to completing its term. The key announcements were to strengthen the backward development department and increase KPCR education benefits.

During the tenure of this government, the finance department rejected three applications seeking permission for regional offices in Palakkad and Kollam districts, five staff in each of the offices, and to increase educational benefits. The fourth application is now before the finance department. When the election is declared, it too will be wasted or likely be rejected.

When so many new posts were created in the last cabinet meetings, the department for the welfare of the backward classes, which forms more than 65% in the state was ruthlessly ignored. There are only two regional offices in the state for the meager benefits provided to the backward classes. The total number of employees in the department is 26.

The beneficiary in Thiruvananthapuram should go to the office in Ernakulam to avail the benefit. There is only one office for seven districts. Minister AK Balan said at the Assembly three years ago that the process for Palakkad and Kollam offices is in progress. . At the same time, the Minority Welfare Department has a special cell in all the District Collectorates.

As per the recommendation of the Justice Kumara Pillai Commission of 1966, benefits are given to students who are behind post-matriculation. Although the fees and tuition have increased, the rate is negligible. The annual income limit is Rs 1 lakh.