Meghalaya: MDC Stevie M Marak faces backlash for distributing cash ahead of GHADC elections

CORRESPONDENT

SHILLONG: A major controversy has erupted in Meghalaya after a video surfaced on social media allegedly showing Stevie M. Marak, the Member of District Council (MDC) from Boldamgre (53) Constituency in South West Garo Hills, publicly distributing Rs 500 notes to roadside vegetable vendors. The incident comes just months ahead of the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) elections and has sparked widespread condemnation.

Senior Congress leader and former Minister Debora C. Marak, along with concerned citizens from East Garo Hills, issued a strongly worded statement denouncing the act. “We write this letter with deep frustration and outrage over a disturbing video that has recently gone viral on social media, showing Stevie M. Marak, the MDC of Boldamgre, publicly distributing Rs 500 notes to street vegetable vendors,” the statement read.

The statement described the act as “irresponsible, shameful, and insensitive,” especially in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis within the GHADC. It highlighted that non-gazetted staff of the Council have reportedly not received salaries for over 42 months. “While thousands of GHADC employees continue to suffer without salaries, this elected representative is seen flaunting cash on the streets, as if in celebration,” the letter stated.

Condemning the incident as a deliberate attempt to gain political mileage, the signatories pointed out that Council offices remain shut due to staff protests and many employees are facing severe financial difficulties. They questioned the source of the funds being distributed, stating, “Is the Council truly broke, or has its money been consistently misappropriated? From where is this MDC drawing such funds for public handouts? Who is being held accountable for this blatant show of power while staff remain unpaid?”

Describing the incident as “unethical and unacceptable,” the group demanded immediate action and accountability. “It is both unethical and unacceptable that while government employees are forced to protest for their rightful dues, a sitting MDC indulges in such actions without fear of consequence,” they said.

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