SRINAGAR: Cutting across party lines, members from both Treasury and Opposition benches created ruckus in the Legislative Assembly, alleging that MLAs are being neglected, while devising developmental works in their respective constituencies.
Asking a question on behalf of Hakim Yaseen Shah, CPI (M) member Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami sought information on the role of MLAs in the projection and execution of various developmental works in their respective constituencies.
Replying to the question, Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu said that MLAs are members of District Capex Budget boards, which accords approval to the District Capex Budgets.
“In the District Development Board meetings chaired by the concerned chairpersons, decisions are taken based on the discussions and deliberations on the requirements projected by the Legislators,” he added. However, Mr Tarigami questioned the claim of the Minister and said that the authority of MLAs have been undermined as they are not taken into confidence, while devising a plan for their constituency.
“The members of this House are responsible for the creation of governments. It is the House, which passes the grant for different ministries, not the government. But, it is ironic that the District Development Board is chaired by a nominated member and not by the elected members,” he said.
“It is the MLA, who is answerable to the people who have elected him or her to represent them. But when the elected representative is not taken into confidence while framing projects, it undermines not only the member of this House, but also the people, who have chosen them,” he added.
Dr Drabu was quick to respond, saying that a constituency is neither an administrative unit, nor a developmental unit. “It is the district, that is an administrative and a developmental unit,” he added.
The Finance Minster further said that the MLAs have no role in the execution of developmental work. “For the first time, we have instructed all District Development Commissioners to consult Legislators before the the formulation of Draft District Capex Budgets and Centrally-sponsored schemes.
“Suggestions of the Legislators are appropriately incorporated in the concerned schemes.” “But, if the MLAs want more powers, it is for the House to decide, I have no problems with it,” he added. (Agencies)
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