Mukul demands fair probe into JJM mess

SHILLONG, Sep 9: Leader of Opposition, Mukul Sangma on Monday stressed on the need for an independent inquiry into the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Meghalaya.
Pointing out to the stark difference between government’s claims and the ground reality, Sangma spoke about the various allegations of shoddy implementation of the JJM in the state, especially in various parts of the Garo Hills region.
“We should have a probe by an independent agency. I will be visiting the ground and compare the reality with the data available on the JJM website. I will embark on this journey very soon to ensure that the truth comes out,” he said.
When it was pointed out that the state government has been refuting all the allegations, he said, “This government will always be on denial mode. They say data is available and based on that people are speaking out about what is happening and what is not as per the website.”
He also stated that Meghalaya was awarded for JJM implementation based on some “smart and brilliant paper works”.
He wanted to know if the state government wants to implement JJM only on paper or was it interested in serving the people on the ground.
The state BJP has repeatedly accused the state government of running a scam in the implementation of the JJM, alleging that a nonfactual report was submitted to the Centre, manipulated to serve the state government’s interests.
Criticising the state’s report, BJP vice president Bernard N Marak had said that the data in the report falsely projects 100 per cent functional tap water connections in villages of Meghalaya, while many remain unconnected.
“The report submitted by the state government is not factual, as ground realities speak otherwise,” Marak said, highlighting that an inspection conducted him revealed the claims of 100 per cent connection in many villages to be fraudulent.