Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, July 28 2010:
Seeking explanation and justification over excess rate quotation of water containers (Polycon can) given to the NREGS beneficiaries of Senapati district, People's Voice-Senapati Bazar, a vigilance body based at Senapati headquarters alleged misdeed over the dealing, saying the district administrator, Nidhi Kesharwani in connivance with a goods supply firm siphoned off public (beneficiaries) fund under the national flagship programmes.
Elaborating over the matter, People Voice-Senapati Bazar convener, T Robert pointed out that Koubru Enterprise supplies Polycon brand, 500 litres capacity water container to the NREGS card holders at the rate of Rs.5,500 per Polycon can but the same is readily available in the markets for Rs.2400 in Imphal and Rs.2250 for the same in Senapati headquarters.
The vigilance body rationalized that when other firms were ready to supply the same products at a much lower rate why the purchasing committee vouched and opted for higher rate giving unjustified advantage to the particular firm.
The Senapati vigilance's body further disclosed that the same brand if purchase in bulk cost just Rs.3000 per 500 litrs capacity Polycon can in Imphal and Rs.3300 at Senapati headquarters.
Giving undue advantage and unjustified dealing with the firm deceived and cheated the people of Senapati in general and NREGS card holders of the district in particular, the vigilant's body lamented.
For the same reason, it said that the vigilance's body lodged a written complaint to the deputy commissioner of Senapati district, Nidhi Kesharwani but on the contrary the district administrator blurted in rage by saying, "What is your personal interest and business here".
Left with no other option, the body is highlighting the matter through media as responsible citizens, Robert said adding, "Nidhi Kesharwani who is also chairman of DRDA was recognized and awarded for NREGS programme but she failed to rectify to bring justice for the rural unemployed people particularly NREGS card holders.