Shillong, Oct 24: The A·chik State Peoples’ Front (ASPF) has extended support to the joint complaint filed by VEC Presidents and Secretaries of Songsak C&RD Block, East Garo Hills, over irregular functioning of the Block office.
In a representation to the C&RD Commissioner & Secretary, ASPF General Secretary Bernita Marak stated that the present BDO, Songsak, who is a Veterinary doctor, has been holding additional charge for more than two years, which is against government norms that mandates approval for charge beyond 90 days and ordinarily not beyond six months.
It further alleged that VEC and Gram Sabha resolutions for works like CC pavement roads are being changed to high-cost paver blocks without consent, leading to incomplete works and violation of Section 16 of MGNREGA Act and Para 7.1 of the guidelines.
On financial propriety, ASPF said CC pavement costs around Rs 850 per sqm as per PWD SoR against paver block at Rs 1500 to 1600 per sqm, and changing specification within the same administrative approval raises concerns.
It also alleged that VEC Secretaries who opposed the change were verbally threatened that their material component would be cut, which amounts to misconduct under the Meghalaya Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1991.
Stating that dual charge and irregular availability have hit processing of documents, wage payments and material bills, ASPF has sought immediate posting of a regular full-time BDO at Songsak, repatriation of the present incumbent to his parent department, an enquiry into the change of work specifications and intimidation, and direction to ensure no vindictive cut in material fund and clearance of pending bills within 15 days of the regular BDO joining.
