Shillong, Feb 26: The opposition today raised concerns regarding the operation of the Chief Minister’s secretariat and the considerable expenditure associated with this department.
Nongkrem MLA, Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit while initiating a debate on a cut motion highlighted that the expenditure on the council of ministers had surged to Rs. 23.20 crore, marking an increase of 26 per cent compared to the previous year.
He said this substantial hike raises important questions about the efficiency of governance. “The question here is whether the efficiency of governance is increasing by 26 per cent,” he challenged.
According to Basaiawmoit, the budgetary increase was largely to accommodate the purchase of new vehicles for ministers and their travel allowances. He said that such spending should not be mistaken for development, as it primarily focuses on ministers and their needs.
Basaiawmoit said that this escalation in political expenditure poses a serious concern given the limited developmental funds available. He insisted that governance should become “leaner, not heavier.”
Leader of Opposition Dr. Mukul Sangma pointed out the inadequacies of the Chief Minister’s Special Development Fund (CMSDF). He stressed that while the fund was established to scrutinise developmental gaps brought forth by the public, its effectiveness in ensuring accountability remains questionable.
“Where is the mechanism for checks and balances to ensure that every single penny spent has genuine intent?” he asked, highlighting the need for more transparency and efficiency in governance.
