Consumer's body cries foul against Binkandie block'

FROM OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT

SILCHAR, Sept 21: No block development in Barak Valley can claim to be fair and transparent in the utilization of funds and implementation of centrally and state sponsored schemes and projects meant for the wellbeing of the weaker sections of people and the overall development of the area. Binkandie development block, as alleged by Grahak Suraksha Samiti (GSS) has been front-runner in questioble utilization of enormous funds.

Biplob Kumar Goswami, general secretary of GSS, said that its campaign among the people of rural areas across the district of Cachar has resulted in being in touch with them and also come across their innumerable allegations against development block of Binkandie in Lakhipur subdivision. According to him, common people are so fed up and disgruntled with the block that they want relief and being shifted to some other block where minimum benefits reach them.

The allegations are that in all the schemes covering MGNREGS, IAY, fince commission fund under panchayat raj, development plan under panchayat and rural development, Kalpataru, old age and widow pension, there exists anomalies and irregularities. Though GSS has no concern with these schemes, yet it behoves on its part to bring it to the notice of the appropriate higher authorities on being pressed by the people. Goswami said the sub divisiol authorities of Lakhipur have been posted with these affairs, but no action seems to have been taken.

The consumer’s body however expresses its hope and confidence that the Lakhipur administration considering the seriousness of the issues at stake will initiate corrective measures in order to meet the public grievances. Another serious allegation mounted is that there is nothing like work culture in Binkandie block office. There is no one to listen to the allegations and grievances. There is no end to the public complaints and eventually people are left in a lurch.

According to informed sources, the corruptions centering round IAY will come around crores of rupees during the last 10 years. GSS general secretary claims to possess certain documents provided by the complaints which will reveal many dark sides of the block development office. Strangely enough, the south Barak area of Lakhipur subdivision is backward in many respects economically, educatiolly and also due to lack of political consciousness which deserve particular attention of the development agencies.

It is really shocking as Biplob Kumar Goswami pointed out those departments or persons responsible for proper utilization and implementation of funds are making all the mess. In the process, despite huge funds being allotted for development go down the pockets of vicious circles and there is no remedy. GSS impresses upon the Deputy Commissioner of Cachar to order for a thorough probe into the public allegations against Binkandie development block. Failure to do so will compel the consumer’s body to launch agitation on the issue.