Shillong, Nov 19: Khliehriat MLA for the United Democratic Party (UDP), Kyrmen Shylla, today said that he has no objection to an inquiry into the MLA scheme if the public believes the funds have not reached the intended beneficiaries.
His remarks came in response to the opposition Voice of the People Party’s (VPP) call for an independent probe into the implementation of the scheme in Meghalaya, which followed a vague accusation by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma that the funds were not being spent as intended in opposition-held constituencies.
“If we feel the benefits have not reached the people, both the public and the government have the right to demand an inquiry. We welcome any kind of inquiry,” Shylla said, adding that he has nothing to hide and would even prefer that the people of his constituency know how the funds are utilised.
He explained that each constituency receives Rs 2.5 crore annually under the scheme and said the money must reach the people and not be diverted. He acknowledged that delays do occur but assured that he aims to ensure the funds are spent within the five-year term.
Shylla also suggested that citizens can use the Right to Information (RTI) Act to access details instead of demanding a probe. “If there is nothing to hide, RTI is the correct way. File an RTI with the BDO (Block Development Officer’s) office and you will get all the information,” he said. “If there is doubt about me or anyone else, the government has the right to check what is happening. If there is doubt, we should not spare anyone.”
