Dear Editor,
It is with great reluctance that I pen this editorial, but the gravity of the situation has left me no alternative. Recently, I visited a disabled individual who previously resided in Region One and is now living in Region Four under the care of a kind-hearted sister of the church. Despite her efforts, this disabled individual has faced systemic neglect and insult from government representatives.
This individual, seeking her rightful $100,000 cash grant, was informed by government officials that she must return to Region One to register—an impractical and unjust demand given her condition. Shocked by her ordeal, I took it upon myself to address the matter directly with the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Minister Vindhya Persaud. A formal letter was sent in December, outlining the urgent need for intervention.
While the Ministry eventually responded through an official in charge of public assistance, the response was far from professional. The officer insulted the disabled woman, questioning her political allegiance and making dismissive remarks, including, “Look, when I come out of Georgetown, I will bring your book.” To date, she has neither received her public assistance book nor any follow-up from the Ministry or the Minister herself.
Ask yourself these questions, How is this disabled individual surviving without assistance? Where are the Ministry officials responsible for her welfare? And why has Minister Vindhya Persaud not intervened in this blatant case of negligence?
The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is mandated to protect and uplift the most vulnerable members of society. This incident highlights a troubling lack of empathy and accountability. It is disheartening to see such a lack of humanity in addressing the needs of a disabled citizen who relies on public assistance for survival.
I call on Minister Vindhya Persaud and her Ministry to take immediate action. This situation demands not just a response but systemic changes to ensure no one else endures such humiliation and neglect.
The disabled in our society deserve respect, dignity, and the full support of the government agencies tasked with their care. Minister Persaud, the time for action is now.
Yours truly,
Pt.Ubraj Narine, JP, COA
Former Staff Sgt.(GDF), Mayor
City of Georgetown
