Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Dec 7: Allegations of large-scale embezzlement of funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) have emerged in the Bhalwal block’s Panchayat Showa.
Reports suggest that funds amounting to lakhs of rupees were withdrawn for works that were either left incomplete or not executed at all. In response, the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Jammu, Vikas Sharma, has constituted a five-member committee to investigate the matter and submit a detailed report.
Local residents have alleged severe irregularities in the implementation of MGNREGA projects in the area. They claim that money was siphoned off for non-existent work and, in cases where tasks were executed, the construction quality was substandard. Additionally, accusations suggest that funds were withdrawn for projects without employing any laborers, which directly contradicts MGNREGA’s mandate to provide rural employment.
To address these grievances, the ACD has constituted a committee comprising officers from various departments. The team has been tasked with conducting an on-ground inspection of project sites and verifying whether the allocated funds were used appropriately. Vikas Sharma assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and any proven misuse of Government funds would lead to strict legal action against those responsible.
The scope of the complaints extends beyond MGNREGA. Residents have highlighted discrepancies in other Government schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, alleging similar mismanagement and misuse of funds. The ACD emphasized the administration’s commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency, reiterating that irregularities would not be tolerated.
“The committee is expected to submit its findings within a specified time frame, after which appropriate measures will be taken,” the ACD added.
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