Face2News/Mansa (Punjab)
In a letter addressed to the Chief Minister, RTI activist Manik Goyal has brought attention to a potential financial fraud involving crores of rupees in the Municipal Council Mansa. Goyal claims that 22 tenders, dated 30.11.2023, were issued for laying tiles and block drains, but 18 of the streets mentioned in these tenders have already been constructed with interlocking tiles or concrete pavement.
He alleges that this is an attempt to manipulate government funds by overcharging for streets that have already been built. Goyal points out the irony of the situation, highlighting that despite the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) being in power in Mansa, the city faces infrastructure challenges.
Broken and unpaved streets, coupled with sewage water issues, persist in various areas, leading to accidents and health concerns. Goyal emphasizes the need for urgent attention to existing problems rather than issuing tenders for new projects. To address the immediate issues, Goyal proposes prioritizing the repair of critical streets such as Chakeria Road and those near Sham Sweets. He suggests deploying a super suction machine on rent for sewage cleaning and upgrading the city's sewage system capacity.
Furthermore, Goyal raises concerns about the availability of Tadra funds for the Municipal Council's projects, indicating that tender calls without available funds could be illegal. He has formally lodged a complaint with the Chief Minister and the Local Government Department, providing evidence of the alleged fraud.
Goyal requests a thorough investigation by either the Police Vigilance Department or the Vigilance Department of the Local Government. In a broader context, Goyal asserts that corruption is widespread in the district and calls for political leaders, officials, and workers to cease such practices and focus on providing relief to the people. He concludes by hinting at potential future exposés related to the Local Government Department, Municipal Council Mansa, Property Tax, NOC, and other matters.
