The Comptroller and Auditor General of India has found that there was inadequate monitoring and questionable payments made to NGOs involved in the construction of individual household latrines (IHHLs) under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme in various parts of Jammu and Kashmir. The CAG’s report highlights that Rs 19.87 crore was paid to NGOs in 20 urban local bodies for the construction of 12,297 IHHLs, but there was a lack of monitoring to ensure that the work was executed as per approved specifications. The CAG also found that in respect of 364 IHHL, completion certificates were not on record; in respect of 123 IHHL, completion certificates, though signed by beneficiaries, were not authenticated by the Urban Local Body authorities; and in six cases, completion certificates were not signed by beneficiaries. The report also indicates that out of 942 selected IHHLs constructed by NGOs, only 95 IHHLs (10 per cent) were found to be functional, and out of 942 selected beneficiaries, 238 beneficiaries stated that NGOs had not constructed their IHHLs, but they constructed IHHLs on their own.
Overall, there was a doubtful payment of Rs 116.46 lakh made to NGOs in respect of 664 cases. The CAG has stressed that the lapses on the part of ULB authorities raise doubts about the genuineness of the construction of IHHLs by NGOs and the expenditure incurred on these constructions. The CAG has recommended that all such cases of doubtful payment be reviewed to determine responsibility and effect recoveries from the responsible parties. In practice, the benefits are not being provided to the public, but rather the nexus between NGOs and officials is in full bloom. Corruption at any level is not acceptable, and this particular case involves money meant for BPL families. Certain beneficiaries are even outside the municipal limits of JMC. A thorough probe and strict action are the needs of the hour.
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