Govt inaction akin to abetting corruption: MPCC
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, October 26 2022:
Expressing concern over continuance of Nandeibam Sarat as the managing director of Manipur State Power Company Limited (MSPCL) despite facing corruption charges and in the light of the recommendation made by the Lok Ayukta in this regard, Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) legal department has categorically stated that the government's claimed efforts to make the state free from corruption is akin to abetting corruption.
According to MPCC spokesperson S Shyamacharan, the government's assertion to make the state free from corruption remains hollow as no action could be initiated against officials involved in corruption charges.
He said that both MSPCL and Manipur State Power Distribution Company (MSPDCL) are putting their best efforts to improve power sector in the state.
However, managing director of MSPCL Nandeibam Sarat was found involved in a corruption case taken up by the Lok Ayukta and his residence was raided in connection with the case relating to construction of a power sub station in Chandel district.
Amidst this, MSPDCL managing director Subashchandra is being accused of involvement in an alleged swindling of more than Rs 200 crore.
Allegation of corruption levelled against top officials of both MSPCL and MSPDCL shows that corruption flourishes in power sector but the government remains silent, Shyamacharan told media persons during a press conference held at Congress Bhawan, here, on Wednesday.
According to Shyamacharan, Lok Ayukta was formed by chief minister N Biren Singh to stop corrupt practices by government officials in the state.
Based on an application filed by a civilian named Th Netrajit, the state Lok Ayukta conducted an enquiry against MSPCL managing director Nandeibam Sarat.
The enquiry conducted by retired justice Tayenjam Nandakumar since February, 2020 concluded that Sarat was involved in misappropriation of fund worth Rs 9 crore and accordingly registered an FIR.
However, Sarat and some officials involved in the case are currently on bail.
Even though the government assured of honouring the recommendations made the Lok Ayukta including suspension of the managing director from service, Nandeibam Sarat continues to hold the post of managing director of MSPCL since February 7, 2022.If this is how the government is tackling corruption, then there is no way it could stop institutionalisation of corruption in the state but would rather embolden government officials to indulge in corruption, Shyamacharan said, while pointing out that to stop corruption in the state, there should be transparency and accountability.