Meghalaya VPP president demands independent inquiry into MLA scheme funds

Guwahati: Voice of the People Party (VPP) president Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit has called on Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma to initiate an independent inquiry into the utilisation of MLA scheme funds, The Shillong Times reported.

In a letter dated November 15, Basaiawmoit referred to Sangma’s recent remarks questioning whether the schemes were being properly implemented, particularly in constituencies held by opposition parties. “I would like to appreciate your concern and apprehensions when you decide to question whether the MLA schemes have been properly utilised or not,” he wrote.

“I fully endorsed your sentiment that the MLA schemes should be properly utilised and implemented transparently,” he added.

Basaiawmoit noted that the VPP has already taken internal measures to ensure transparency. The party has instructed all its MLAs to implement the schemes responsibly, and he included a copy of the correspondence with his letter.

He urged the formation of an independent inquiry committee, suggesting the investigation cover MLA fund utilisation from 2008 onwards, beginning with the Nongkrem constituency.

Basaiawmoit stressed the importance of public accountability and requested that the government take action so that citizens are fully informed about the use of the funds.

The Chief Minister’s Office acknowledged receipt of the letter on November 15.

Sangma had recently questioned the development record of constituencies represented by VPP MLAs. “Sometimes, I doubt whether or not the MLA scheme is being used properly in the constituencies. People of these areas should file RTIs and find out how the MLAs and MPs are utilising their schemes,” he said.

The Chief Minister also noted that while opposition MLAs elsewhere cooperate with governments for development, some in Meghalaya avoid engagement with the state administration.

“In the process, they are neglecting the responsibilities for which they are elected,” he said, adding that the government seeks development in every constituency but faces challenges due to limited avenues for implementation.