Patna, Aug. 4: The RJD has sought a white paper on implementation of MGNREGA in the state after a CAG report highlighted large-scale irregularities in its implementation.
RJD secretary general Ram Kripal Yadav, also a member of upper house, attacked chief minister Nitish Kumar and said the government had looted MGNREGA money. “The Nitish government must release a white paper giving details of the Rs 8110.84 crore spent in 534 blocks between 2007 and 2012. MGNREGA is an ambitious scheme for the poor but the way the state government has handled this scheme and looted money shows insensitivity. The CAG report has proved how Nitish and former ally BJP swindled money meant for the poor,” he said.
“We have states like Odisha and Andhra Pradesh which have developed their villages with MGNREGA fund. Why cannot Bihar government do the same? The government is responsible for the pathetic condition in the state. Nitish claims sushasan (good governance), then why did he not make a proper labour budget? As a result, the Centre did not sanction Rs 9684.24 crore to Bihar,” he said.
Citing the CAG report, he further said, “Only 35 per cent of 1.34 crore registered people were allotted jobs, 37 per cent people do not have photographs on their job cards. The most embarrassing part is Rs 2.07 crore was spent on plantations in Araria, Banka, Begusarai, Bhojpur, Darbhanga, Muzaffarpur, Munger, Nalanda Sitamarhi and West Champaran. But on inspection, CAG found no plantations.”
Ram Kripal also alleged money was spent on purchasing things not falling under MGNREGA. “In Araria and Munger districts, MGNREGA money to the tune of Rs 22 lakh and Rs 64 lakh respectively was spent on air conditioners, petrol for vehicles, building rent and BPL survey. The CAG report says irregularities found this year were found in 2007 too. It means the government did not take any action on the 2007 report either.”
He said BJP leader Sushil Kumar Modi, who was finance minister in NDA, was equally to blame. “Both JD(U) and BJP leaders are mum on the CAG report. Sushil Kumar Modi is also responsible and an equal partner in the loot of MGNREGA funds.”
