Advisor Zhaleo Rio flags off the sanitation vehicles to the Urban Local Bodies at Chümoukedima Public Ground on October 16. (DIPR Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | October 17
In the sharpest rebuke yet, Advisor for Urban Development & Municipal Affairs Zhaleo Rio on October 16 ‘schooled’ newly elected urban local bodies (ULBs) representatives in Nagaland on the importance of following established procedures and rules, expressing concern that the taste of power may be going over their heads.
Addressing a programme for the distribution of sanitation vehicles to the ULBs at the Chümoukedima Public Ground, the Advisor noted that he has been informed about a one-time grant given by the State Government to the newly established civic bodies being used for purposes other than intended.
The money was intended for setting up, extending, and renovating offices, as well as purchasing other essentials for their functioning, such as furniture and computers. However, it has been reported that these funds are being used to buy vehicles led by Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, he maintained.
“If you are searching for your own comfort, what are you going to do for your town and the public? That is wrong,” he added.
Rio further informed that the State Government is "fighting very hard" for funds, stating that while "money is coming," it will be withheld if not utilised properly.
If the first installment is not used appropriately, those responsible would be asked to refund the money spent in violation of the Nagaland Municipal Act 2023, as well as the guidelines and advisories issued from time to time, he cautioned.
“I am very serious about this; keep it in mind,” the Advisor reiterated.
He implied that ULB councillors need more education and counseling and urged them to properly read the NMA 2023, while conveying his frustration that reminders regarding guidelines and advisories have been ignored.
To this end, Rio opined that taste of power might be going over their heads and stated, “Don’t get excited. Go slow. First, know your powers, duties, and responsibilities.”
“I am very serious about it, keep those in mind,” he underscored.
He also called upon the ULBs to seek support from the public, colony, and ward leaders to find ways to generate revenue.
According to the State DIPR, the Advisor further noted that the ULBs “cannot function with ego clashes” and urged all representatives to cooperate and work together as a team to bring about change in their jurisdictions.
He also expressed appreciation to the East Dimapur Town Council for its demolition drive against illegal encroachments within its jurisdiction.
It is worth noting that on September 20, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio announced the approval of Rs 36 crore for all ULBs to be used in areas requiring immediate attention.
In addition to the emergency fund, proposals should be submitted by elected councilors for the upcoming visit of the 16th Finance Commission to the State, he added, addressing the inauguration of the new Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) office in Dimapur.
