Ajay Sharma
Sunderbani, December 20
Villagers of Panchayat Nala in Sunderbani Tehsil of district Rajouri have reportedly castigated the alleged monopoly of local representatives, accusing them of encouraging corruption by carrying development works behind the curtains without bringing anything in public notice.
According to sources, the alleged malpractices by Gram Rozgar Sevak (GRS) and Village Level Worker (VLW) involve some Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members and authorities who are purportedly working in the interest of influential individuals rather than the community.
“Locals in the area are unaware of the activities of the local administration and representatives, as a few PRI members and authorities seem to be operating in collusion with influential figures in the area,” alleged sources, adding that this approach of the VLW and GRS has led to a lack of transparency and accountability in the region.
Sources stated that a First Information Report (FIR) was registered against the Gram Rozgar Sevak (GRS) and Village Level Worker (VLW) on charges of corruption.
“As per rules around 10 percent of villagers are supposed to participate in the Gram Sabha,” said sources, adding that in present case even that number has never reached, because VLW and GRS never bother to involve villagers in developmental works and the same can be verified anytime by seeking Geotagged pictures.
Villagers claimed that they have limited knowledge about any developmental activities in the area. It appears that only GRS, VLW, and a handful of influential individuals are privy to information about ongoing projects and initiatives.
Locals are demanding a scrutiny of the locations of VLW and GRS to ascertain their actual presence and involvement in the region. “Director of Rural Development Department (RDD), Assistant Commissioner Development (ACD), and Block Development Officer (BDO) of Sunderbani are aware of the monopoly and corruption but have not taken any substantial action to curb the malpractices,” alleged sources.
Interestingly, it has been seen that the Block Development Council (BDC) and District Development Council (DDC) are actively working in consonance with the public, providing a stark contrast to the secretive actions of VLW and GRS.
Locals have requested the Lieutenant Governor (LG) to intervene into the matter. They are urging the LG to question the RDD Director and ACD about the alleged malpractices in the region, in a bid to bring transparency and accountability to the local administration of Panchayat Nala.
