Fund misuse charge on Garo Hills MDC

Ampati, Jan 30: An investigation has been sought into the alleged misappropriation of Rs 69 lakh from three projects under the MDC’s scheme in Zikzak (Mahendraganj) constituency, represented by Akter Ali in the GHADC.
A complaint in this regard was submitted by the South West Garo Hills (SWGH) chapter of Achik Holistic Awakening Movement (AHAM) to the CEM of the GHADC, Albinush Marak here on Tuesday afternoon.
The accusation comes through a press release by the organization, after a field verification of RTI data which allegedly showed three projects,  which include earth filling for a playground in Silkona under Mahendraganj (Rs 25 lakh), the construction of a boulder wall at the same playground for Rs 19 lakh and the construction of five toilets in Silkona (for an amount of Rs 25 lakh).
All the above projects were commissioned under the 15th 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.