Demands Impartial Inquiry Commission into MGNREGA funds
DIMAPUR, JUNE 14 (MExN): President of the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), K Therie today alleged that the party has “received various threats from the Minister, Rural Development and his cronies for raising the rights of job card holders as is provided in the MGNREGA.”
A press note from the NPCC President said that the Governor has taken serious view of the issue, directing the government for effective action - either to hand over to Lokayukta (Anti-Corruption Ombudsman) or Anti-Corruption Commission of the State.
However, since Lokayukta has not been appointed yet and the State Vigilance Commission cannot proceed with prosecution without sanction from the State Government; the NPCC demanded an Impartial Inquiry Commission headed by a retired High Court Judge.
The NPCC informed that during April 2016, Rs.442.32 crores was released to the Nagaland State Government for MGNREGA payments. “This is June 2016 but Government has held up the funds. We learnt that few crores have been released and that also in the name of “mobilisation” money was taken back from village on demand. The Congress wants that this money should go to the people and not to the pockets of Ministers, MLAs and few officers,” it stated.
“If Minister Rural Development has not directed, he should make a statement in clear terms to the public that he is not demanding any mobilisation funds from VCCs/VDBs and officers; that VCCs/VDBs should not sign blank cheques and that the money collected should be returned to VCCs/VDBs for payment to the Job Card holders,” the NPCC added.
It affirmed that the Congress wants people to get their rightful wages. “They should be awarded the right of 100 days work as is provided by the MGNREGA through the bill passed by Parliament. It is one of the strongest Bills along with RTI. We want people not to repeat the same mistakes. We want people and leaders to change for the better. The funds belong to the people and not to any Minister or Department.”
Claiming that Village Council or VDBs and the officers are being “dictated” by the Rural Development Minister, the NPCC appealed “to all not to protect corruption.” “It only leads you to the corruption party. We know you are directed and intimidated. Congress is here to defend VCCs/VDBs and MGNREGA Employees. Join in the demand for the rights of the public,” it asked.
