Imphal, May 03: Cooks of schools appointed under the centre sponsored Mid-Day Meal scheme who are yet to get their honorariums since July last year, have declined to accept their honorariums for five months following a report that 5 percent of the amounts would be deducted.

Talking to reporters today secretary of All Cooks and Helpers Association (ZEO zone I), L Sumati informed that when the cooks went for their honorarium yesterday, Additional Director S Gita conveyed of a directive for deduction of 5 percent from the amounts.

Even though no definite reason was furnished for the directive, Gita disclosed that it came from the former Education Minister, iterated Sumati.

The secretary informed that when the association went to meet Additional Director, no definite clarification was provided besides using uncouth words.

It further sought clarification from all concerned behind deduction of 5 percent from the meagre wages of just Rs 40 per day for the cooks and Rs 35 per day for the helpers.

Until and unless, a definite clarification is provided on the matter, the cooks would not accept their honorariums, stated Sumati adding that a detailed report on the matter would be sent to the Centre.

Speaking to The Sangai Express, the Additional Director maintained that she has no authority to resolve the issue of percentage deduction and added that it needs a joint sitting of officers concerned with the scheme, other high ranking officials, teachers and cooks.

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