Shillong, Apr 7: Mawthadraishan MDC Powell Sohkhlet has alleged that there is bias in the way the state government has allocated funds for repairing 180 government lower primary schools in Meghalaya.
The government has earmarked funds for repairing only eight schools in Eastern West Khasi Hills (under which Mawthadraishan falls), while 38 schools have been earmarked for repairs in West Garo Hills, 29 in West Jaintia Hills and 19 in East Khasi Hills.
Sohkhlet questioned the disparity, stating that Eastern West Khasi Hills has over 80 government lower primary schools, most of which are in a dilapidated state, yet only one-tenth of these have been sanctioned funds. He appreciated the state government’s initiative to repair and renovate lower primary schools but opined that the allocation process seems biased.
He suggested utilising part of the Rs 125 crore fund for deficit and ad hoc schools, saying teachers in these schools receive government salaries but building repairs are left to school management committees.
Sohkhlet urged village dorbars and school management to ensure contractors implement the funds transparently, benefiting students.
