Shillong, Aug 26: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma today denied allegations that central funds meant for the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) were misused during his time as chairman of the High-Powered Committee (HPC).
The issue was raised again recently after Leader of the Opposition Dr Mukul M Sangma claimed that over Rs 100 crore released in 2015–16 by New Delhi had been misappropriated. The special grant, the first of its kind from the Centre, was meant for development and welfare works in Garo Hills.
At first, Conrad Sangma appeared unaware of the Special Assistance Grant (SAG) when asked about it today. Later, however, he clarified that the figures being quoted were wrong. He said that only 60-70 per cent of the total sanctioned funds were actually released by the Centre and that all the money received had been properly utilised.
“That is absolutely incorrect. In fact, only 60 or 70 per cent of that was released by the Government of India and the utilisation details were submitted. All the works were carried out,” Conrad said.
He explained that delays in submitting utilisation certificates by other district councils had affected the release of funds. This eventually led to the central government stopping the programme altogether.
“We did not get all the funds at that time. Since it was linked with other councils, delays in their utilisation certificates created a blockage and finally the Centre stopped the programme,” he added.
The Chief Minister stressed that the money received by GHADC was fully accounted for and supported by records. “Whatever funds we got were used, and everything is on paper,” he said.
