Ampati, Jan 30: The South West Garo Hills (SWGH) chapter of the Achik Conscious Holistically Integrated Krima (ACHIK) has written to the CEM of the GHADC, Albinush Marak seeking an investigation in what they termed misappropriation of Rs 69 lakhs from three projects under the MDC’s scheme in the Zikzak (Mahendraganj) constituency.
The complaint was submitted this afternoon at Tura, Jan 30.
The accusation comes through a press release by the organization, after a field verification of RTI data which allegedly showed three projects: earth filling for a playground in Silkona under Mahendraganj (Rs 25 lakhs), the construction of a boulder wall at the same playground for Rs 19 lakhs and the construction of 5 toilets in Silkona (for an amount of Rs 25 lakhs).
All the above projects were commissioned under the Fifteenth Finance Commission (Basic Grant 2nd Installment) for 2021-2022 in the serial no.67, 68, and 69 respectively of the Lists of Project under Annexure V with NGO accusing the MDC of acting in collusion with the contractor of these projects to misappropriate the amount.
“The RTI reveals that the MDC, Akter Ali, received a substantial amount from these projects without any corresponding execution of work on the ground. This is a clear case of corruption and misuse of public funds,” said AHAM co-chairman, Brejio Marak.
AHAM further questioned the accountability mechanism of the GHADC where individuals entrusted with public resources are not being held accountable for their actions.
“This lack of accountability can perpetuate corruption and erode public trust in institutions. Those meant to check such corruption are egging it on and this is hampering progress. There might be flaws in the selection, monitoring, and evaluation of projects, allowing corruption to thrive. Addressing these systemic issues is crucial for preventing similar incidents in the future,” they felt.
AHAM felt that the case of Akter Ali, the MDC from Mahendraganj was just the tip of the iceberg and highlighted the need for reforms in the GHADC on financial management and anti corruption.
The NGO added that they would look at all implementations of such schemes funded by the GHADC, in the coming days to ensure such cases of corruption are highlighted.
“We want legal action against such MDCs under the laws of the land and we will work towards that goal so that such corruption can be rooted out and these misappropriation of public funds put up on public display,” added Brejio.