PUDUCHERRY: In an unprecedented move that left the government facing flak, the details of the union territory’s upcoming budget was published on the government’s website, even before it was due to be presented in the Assembly on August 29. The document was subsequently removed from the site.
Former Lok Sabha member and AIADMK functionary M Ramadass said the move constituted a breach of privilege of the House. “It also reflects the administrative laxity of the government and obliviousness of the procedures on the part of the officers for which the Chief Minister is responsible. He owes an explanation to the Legislative Assembly and the people of Puducherry,” Ramadass said.
The total approved planned expenditure and department-wise plan outlay have been disclosed in a communication titled, ‘PRIORITY: PLAN BUDGET’. According to the document, the approved plan outlay for 2016-17 is Rs 2,565 crore, which would be allocated to 53 government departments. The approved outlays for key departments are follows: Adi Dravidar Welfare - Rs 15,502.34 lakh; Agriculture - Rs 7,227.11 lakh; Cooperation - Rs 5,000 lakh; School Education - Rs 21,274.96 lakh; Higher Education - Rs 24,332.68 lakh; Health - Rs 29,680.34 lakh; Electricity - Rs 9,551.20 lakh; Local Administration - Rs 9,785 .52 lakh; Public Works - Rs 41,156.16 lakh; Social Welfare - Rs 7,220.20 lakh; Tourism - Rs 6,643.38 lakh; Women & Child Development - Rs 34,523.70 lakh.