Central Team to Investigate Allegations of Irregularities in MGNREGA Scheme in Punjab

A central team will investigate various complaints of alleged irregularities and fake job cards in Punjab under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGA), according to Union Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. During his visit to the state, Chouhan dismissed the AAP government's claim that Rs 1,600 crore in flood-relief funds had not been released to Punjab, stating that the Centre has been providing funds to the state.

Chouhan mentioned that he recently reviewed the implementation of MGNREGA in Punjab. He noted that a few days ago, the Centre disbursed over Rs 6,000 crore to Punjab under this scheme. However, he also received numerous complaints from workers about MGNREGA in Punjab. "There are fake job cards, work is done by contractors, while needy workers do not get work. There were many types of complaints. We reviewed them today," he said.

MGNREGA Complaints and Investigation

The minister highlighted complaints from several districts, including Muktsar and Fazilka, regarding MGNREGA works. He described these issues as serious and urged the state government to investigate and hold those responsible accountable. "This money is not for contractors. This money is for giving work to labourers," he asserted. Chouhan, who also serves as Union Agriculture Minister, stated that a Government of India team will examine these allegations to determine if irregularities occurred in MGNREGA's implementation.

Addressing accusations from the AAP government about the non-release of Rs 1,600 crore in flood-relief funds, Chouhan clarified that Rs 480 crore had already been provided to Punjab. He emphasized that funds are being released continuously and assured there is no shortage of funds for the state. He explained that utilisation certificates are sometimes needed from the state government, and if certificates for 75% of the work expenditure are not submitted, subsequent funds are withheld.

Flood Relief and Housing Initiatives

Discussing flood-related damages in Punjab, Chouhan mentioned that the state government submitted a list of 36,000 homes for reconstruction under the PM Awas Yojana. Approval was granted for 30,000 houses, with 6,000 still pending. Out of one lakh houses planned for construction for the poor, approval has been given for 76,000 homes by the state government.

Chouhan reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to providing new homes to all impoverished individuals living in kachha houses in Punjab. The minister's statements underline ongoing efforts to address housing needs and ensure proper fund allocation for development projects in the state.

With inputs from PTI