Fayaz Bukhari
Srinagar, Mar 9: The Rural Development Department (RDD) Kashmir has ordered an inquiry into alleged mismanagement of funds under the MGNREGA scheme in Budgam, including the falsification of worksite attendance for at least 11 consecutive days.
The alleged fraud has surfaced in the Panchayat halqas of Block Surasyar, specifically in Bonian, Jabbad, Neego, Branwar and Bunyar.
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Following a complaint, the Director of RDD Kashmir has written to the Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), Budgam, directing an investigation into the matter and the termination of those involved.
“A complaint has been received regarding mismanagement of funds under MGNREGA in Panchayat Halqas Bonen, Jabbad, Neego, and Bunyar of Block Surasyar (copy enclosed). In this context, you are requested to enquire into the matter and initiate the process of terminating delinquent GRSs who have manipulated the system by uploading fake photographs of worksites,” read a communication from the RDD Director, Kashmir.
The communication follows a complaint filed by Syed Farhat, Director of ‘Go Green Budgam’ and a member of the Environment Policy Group (EPG).
In his complaint, Farhat provided evidence of fraudulent wage payments, falsified attendance records, manipulated photographic proof, illegal issuance of job cards, misuse of JCB machinery, and alleged embezzlement of public funds.
He also highlighted severe environmental degradation and illegal land encroachment under the MGNREGA scheme.
The RDD’s directive came after it was revealed that fake attendance records had been uploaded for 11 consecutive days during heavy rainfall, leading to fraudulent wage payments exceeding Rs 1,39,500 per day.
According to the complaint, MGNREGA job cards were also issued to ineligible individuals, including family members of Government employees.
Additionally, there was illegal use of JCB machinery for construction purposes, a direct violation of MGNREGA guidelines.
PRI funds meant for public infrastructure were also allegedly diverted towards private construction and encroachment activities.
Notably, MGNREGA aims to enhance livelihood security in rural areas by providing at least 100 days of guaranteed wage employment per financial year to at least one member of every rural household.
Authorities have assured the complainant that no official involved in the alleged large-scale fraud will be spared, while noting that the officials in the district administration have been tasked with ensuring the full recovery of misappropriated Government funds.
They have also emphasized that legal action will be pursued against individuals and officials implicated in the fraud.
The complainant stated that justice for unemployed youth and the protection of public resources were long overdue, while lauding the authorities for their swift action against corruption.
Locals in the affected areas have also welcomed the intervention by the Director of RDD Kashmir, expressing hope that it will set a precedent against corruption and restore accountability in Government schemes.
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