Surat :Inquiry Initiated into Alleged Irregularities in Mangarol Taluka Panchayat’s Finance Commission Grant

Surat : The Development Commissioner of Gujarat State has taken a significant step by launching an investigation into alleged irregularities and corruption surrounding the 15th Finance Commission grant of the Mangarol Taluka Panchayat. This move comes in response to a complaint filed by Darshan Naik, the general secretary of Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), who has leveled serious accusations of corruption against the authorities of the Surat District Panchayat.

The allegations primarily revolve around the misuse and glaring irregularities in the allocation of funds for public amenities, particularly the purchase of Solar LED street lights and benches. According to Naik’s complaint, the purchase order for the Solar LED lights, valued at Rs 4.84 lakh, was allegedly awarded to Surat-based KP Enterprises without following the standard tender procedure. This action has raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the procurement process.

Moreover, the complaint highlighted another incident involving the installation of benches intended for public use. Despite the panchayat approving a total of 1315 benches for villages in the area, it has come to light that the contracted party only installed 1158 benches. However, the contractor was allegedly paid the full amount of Rs 49 lakh, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the transaction.

These allegations have sparked significant interest and concern within the community, prompting the Development Commissioner’s office to take swift action and initiate a comprehensive inquiry. The probe aims to uncover the truth behind the accusations and determine whether any irregularities or corrupt practices indeed occurred in the allocation of funds and procurement processes.

“The outcome of this inquiry is anticipated to shed light on the matter and hold accountable any individuals or entities found to have violated established protocols and norms” said Darshan Naik, general secretary of GPCC.