Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 14: Bharatiya Gujjar Mahasabha (BGM) has alleged large scale embezzlement of funds under the Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) since 1991, when the Gujjar and Bakkerwals were granted ST status.
Addressing a press conference here today, BGM president, Eshfaq-ur-Rehman Poswal alleged that embezzlement to the tune of around Rs 5,000 crore has been done in the State under Tribal Sub Plan (TSP) since 1991.
“No accountability has been fixed over such large misappropriation, while the Gujjars, Bakkerwal and other tribal communities of the State still continue to be backward and deprived of basic amenities including power, water, education and road connectivity”, he said adding, “Had the funds been utilized properly and in a transparent manner, the situation on ground would have been different”.
He also questioned the Chief Minister as to how many roads had been constructed in the State prior to implementation of PMGSY and how many areas have been electrified prior to the implementation of RGGVY.
“Government must explain as to how many areas have been provided water, roads, power under TSP”, he said.
Poswal said that the BGM has since long been demanding creation of a separate administrative Department for Tribal Affairs to keep a check on such embezzlements and for proper monitoring of schemes at block level.
He demanded from the CM to convene a meeting of his Principal Secretary, Principal Secretary Planning, Principal Secretary Finance and Principal Secretary Social Welfare involving the members of BGM so that facts and ground realities regarding TSP should be discussed to find a way out.
Poswal also demanded probe to ascertain the embezzlement of funds under TSP since 1991.
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