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Local News
23 March 2025

Bac Giang Reviews Social Assistance Standards Amid Fraud Prevention Efforts

Local authorities discuss amending social assistance policies while addressing community financial awareness and fraud prevention measures.

Bac Giang province is undergoing significant legislative changes as local officials discuss amendments to a key social assistance resolution established in 2021. On March 21, 2025, legislators met to evaluate a draft resolution intended to amend Resolution No. 24/2021/NQ-HĐND, which sets social assistance standards in the region.

Resolution No. 24 was first introduced on August 10, 2021, establishing a social assistance level of 360,000 VND per month, based on the guidelines set forth by Decree No. 20/2021/NĐ-CP from March 15, 2021. However, adjustments in national policy have prompted local officials to react. Recent changes included the introduction of Decree No. 76/2024/NĐ-CP on July 1, 2024, which raised the social assistance standard to 500,000 VND per month.

On July 23, 2024, the Bac Giang Provincial People's Committee issued a directive applying the new standard in accordance with this decree. This new amount will take effect starting July 1, 2024, emphasizing the importance of adapting local regulations to national frameworks.

During the legislative discussion, several representatives voiced concerns about the implications of simply repealing Clause 1, Article 2 of the resolution. They argued that this single action might overlook the resolution's interconnected clauses and the overall context necessary for social welfare governance.

"The interrelation of these legal components needs to be recognized," noted one delegate, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive review of Resolution No. 24 rather than a piecemeal approach. Instead of a repeal, many suggested that amendments should be made to align the resolution with recent national directives.

Vice Chair Lam Thi Huong Thanh concluded the meeting, stressing the need for thorough examination and evaluation of the social assistance framework, taking into account the unique needs and policies governing Bac Giang. Officials were urged to collaborate with pertinent committees to ensure that any draft revisions reflect accurate assessments and judicial guidelines.

Only hours after intensive discussions regarding the legislative resolutions, a separate incident highlighted the strategies of community vigilance against fraud. On March 21, 2025, at 11:30 AM, police in Viet Lap commune, Bac Giang province, were alerted by Mr. Pham Van Xuan regarding a mistaken bank transfer. Just one day earlier, on March 20, his account unexpectedly received 7 billion VND from a Techcombank account, raising concerns about potential fraud.

Mr. Xuan, 43, recognized the unusual transaction and promptly sought the assistance of local authorities to verify the legitimacy of the transfer and to safeguard the funds. By 2:00 PM on the same day, officers at the Viet Lap commune police station, alongside representatives from the relevant bank and the individual who initiated the transfer, were collaborating to clarify the situation. Ms. X., who was in possession of the bank account, traveled from Hanoi to assist in the efforts.

By 4:30 PM, the police facilitated the successful return of the 7 billion VND to the company involved, showcasing the efficiency of local law enforcement in handling mistaken transfers and maintaining financial integrity.

However, the incident serves as a critical reminder for the public to verify account information during financial transactions. Police urge that anyone receiving unexpected transfers should immediately report to their nearest police station. Their guidance echoes a broader call for caution in handling financial affairs to prevent the distress that can arise from erroneous banking transactions.

“Recognizing the potential for scams is crucial,” Mr. Xuan mentioned, reflecting on the importance of community education around financial safety. His proactive approach underscores the ongoing need for vigilance and awareness in monetary dealings.

Overall, the situation in Bac Giang illustrates the delicate balance between updating social policies to meet contemporary standards while fostering a community-oriented approach to fraud prevention. As local authorities and residents alike respond to the rapid changes in both legislative frameworks and social realities, their collective actions will shape the province's commitment to social welfare and public trust in its financial systems.