Srinagar, July 15: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday expressed grave concern over mounting allegations of bias in the release of material cost payments under the MGNREGA scheme, stating that such practices are pushing Jammu and Kashmir’s rural economy into deeper uncertainty and leaving an already distressed rural population in dire straits.
In a statement issued here, PDP leader Ajaz Ahmad Mir said that despite official claims of streamlining rural employment schemes in Jammu and Kashmir, the ground reality tells a different story. “Bills of contractors have been pending for months, gathering dust, and no new work is being initiated as contractors have lost interest. This is a serious issue and should merit immediate attention from those at the helm. Ensuring equitable payment distribution is essential for the effective implementation of MGNREGA and the welfare of the local community.”
Highlighting a specific case in Imam Sahib, Shopian, Mir said that contractors are protesting against discriminatory practices in the disbursement of material cost payments under MGNREGA works.
“I urge the administration to ensure that payments are released strictly in accordance with the online approved lists, leaving no halqa behind. It is imperative that disbursement is carried out fully and fairly across all halqas to uphold transparency, maintain public trust, and deliver justice to all stakeholders involved,” Mir said.
