Agartala, Aug 21: Serious allegations of corruption have surfaced in the rubber plantation project implemented in Unakoti district, raising concerns about the functioning of the Tribal Welfare Department.
Reports suggest that large-scale irregularities have taken place in the project spread across Hirachhara, Deorachhara, and Unakoti ADC villages under the Gournagar RD Block.
The Gournagar Panchayat Samiti has taken the matter to the Chief Secretary, demanding immediate intervention.
Speaking to reporters, Samiti Vice Chairman Badruzzaman alleged that in the absence of a village committee, the Samiti is entrusted with approving various development projects, including MNREGA.
However, he claimed that a section of officials, in collusion with influential local leaders, has deliberately engaged in manipulations.
He pointed out glaring discrepancies in the beneficiary list, noting that while 786 pattadar families reside in the three villages, the records reflect 799 beneficiaries.
“In several instances, multiple members from the same household have been included repeatedly, while allocations have even been diverted to other villages,” he stated.
Badruzzaman further alleged that, acting on instructions from the District Magistrate, funds meant for MNREGA are being withheld at the block level and transferred to the Zonal Development Office.
The Samiti has already lodged formal complaints with both the Chief Secretary and the Chief Minister, urging action.
In a scathing criticism, Badruzzaman remarked, “The Tribal Welfare Department has lost its direction, blinded by the lure of money. The government must launch an immediate inquiry and expose the mountain of scams.”
