Shillong, Oct 22: The Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) has accused the state government of adopting double standards in disclosing information on legal expenditure.
In a statement issued today, HYC President Roy Kupar Synrem said RTI replies show contrasting responses from two government entities.
While the Meghalaya Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) furnished year-wise details of legal fees paid to its legal adviser, the Office of the Commissioner of Excise denied similar information relating to Advocate General Amit Kumar citing Section 8 of the RTI Act, he said.
“Why is transparency possible for one lawyer but becomes an excuse-ridden exercise when information involves Advocate General Amit Kumar? Is the Government applying different rules to different lawyers?” Synrem questioned.
He said when public money to the tune of crores is involved, citizens deserve answers and not selective disclosure.
“Public money demands public accountability. The government cannot preach transparency with one hand and practise secrecy with the other,” Synrem added, demanding full disclosure of department-wise legal expenditure.
