Ranchi, July 26: The JVM today demanded that the government complete the under-construction Haj House in the capital and open it for pilgrims in two months, alleging that the administration was deliberately delaying work to shield culprits who had misappropriated money meant for the project.

Construction of the building — an initiative of the state welfare department aimed at accommodating Haj pilgrims — had begun after Madhu Koda became the chief minister in 2006.

However, it came under a cloud when one of its roofs collapsed in 2008, injuring a few labourers. A vigilance inquiry was ordered, bringing the roles of then housing board chairman Nazm Ansari and welfare minister Haji Hussain Ansari under scanner.

“The pillars of the building have started cracking. The progress made by the vigilance also remains a mystery. Neither the guilty have been punished nor construction work resumed,” JVM vice-president Saba Ahmed said.

JVM principal general secretary Pradeep Yadav also termed the Arjun Munda government’s avowal to fight out corruption and provide good governance through legislation as eyewash.

Taking on deputy chief minister Sudesh Mahto, he said the performances of the departments headed by Mahto too were quite disheartening.