CM Neiphiu Rio attempted to divert Funds provided under Special Road Development Program

Kohima, April 29, 2018

In its attempt to snatch credits yet again, PDA Government under Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio attempted to divert Funds provided under Special Road Development Program (SRDP 2017-18) amounting to Rs. 15.00 Crores which was secured by the previous NPF led DAN Government under the Chief Ministership of TR Zeliang.

The same has been brought to the notice of Gauhati High Court, Kohima Bench which has listed the case for hearing on 14.05.2018. Copies of the Court Order, dated 16.04.2018 and 25.04.2018 are attached below for reference.

Under the NPF regime, SRDP Fund 2017-18 was released to the Work Agency after necessary approval of the Government although it could not be formally released to the respective Divisions due to election code of conduct announced by ECI.

Now, after the present PDA Government came, 15 Projects were replaced and only 2 out of 17 Projects were retained. The said amount which was supposed to be released to various Divisions was parked with Chief Engineer’s Office, PWD(R&B) awaiting completion of election process.

It came as no surprise when the present Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio after spotting the amount lying with C.E(R&B) hastily directed the Department to move for re-appropriation. Within a week’s time, the sanctioned and released Fund was diverted to his own village and few other villages in Dimapur District to suit his interest while another 5 Crores was earmarked for supply of bitumen in the name of his son in-law. The said amount was re-deposited to Treasuries & Accounts and drawn against those diverted Projects.

This lapse of procedural matter both in Planning and Finance Department goes to show the stark reality of PDA Government and its promise of bringing ‘Change’ to Nagaland.

Had there been no Court intervention the Fund in question would have been liquidated by this time. Such similar changes are in the offing and PDA Government is in a hurry to empty the State exchequer because they know, their days are numbered.

Issued by PETITIONERS whose name and contact no. are mentioned below:

Dated, 29th April, 2018

(JEANGE KN KONYAK)
+917005763483
(Y. HETOKHU AWOMI)
+917005789630