Mendipathar MLA questions ex legislator

SHILLONG: Mendipathar MLA Marthon Sangma has questioned former MLA, F W Momin for issuing Utilization Certificates (UCs) for the developmental projects under SRWP 2012-13 even after demitting the office besides accusing the Block Development Officer of fraudulently releasing second installments for the scheme.
Marthon Sangma, few years back wrote to the North Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner complaining that the Block Development Officer, Saljong Marak fraudulently released the entire second installment  of the scheme  amounting to Rs 11 lakh seventy-five thousand for the work not done  on the basis of the U.Cs issued by the ex-MLA which is highly irregular and objectionable as there is no such scope to allow ex-MLAs to issue such certificates who has already demitted office and ceased to be member of the legislative assembly.
He also alleged that most of the photographs taken and shown as completed were either taken from the NREGS works and some of the photos even suggests proving beyond doubt that they were SSA buildings and LP School buildings constructed by the department.
“All such instances points to a deep rooted well planed conspiracy by the officer and ex-MLA to swindle off the public money meant for development,” he said.
He also said that the BDO has completely ignored and bypassed the standing order of the State Government where it is clearly stated that with regards to pending second installment of the scheme, concerned BDO himself should issue the necessary UCs which are to be duly countersigned by the Deputy Commissioner after proper verification.
The MLA also alleged that the signatures of the beneficiaries in the U.Cs. (Utilization certificates) were forged ones as beneficiaries were not even aware of the transaction that took place in their names.
When contacted, former MLA FW Momin said that there was an order from the State Government that the UCs for the scheme with 50 percent completion should be issued by the former MLA and the projects should continue.
“The same procedure was applied in Bajengdoba and Resubelpara as well,” he said, adding that the issue is very old and the DC has already conducted an inquiry into the matter.