BHUBANESWAR: The state government has swung into action following reports of large-scale irregularities in implementation of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) in Athagarh of Cuttack district with Panchayati Raj minister Rabi Narayan Naik visiting the area to take stock of the situation.
Naik on Friday visited Dampatipur village under Athagarh sub-division and held discussions with locals regarding their grievances and difficulties, particularly allegations relating to misappropriation of housing funds meant for beneficiaries under the rural housing scheme. It has been alleged that housing funds meant for poor tribal beneficiaries were siphoned off by influential persons.
According to reports, funds sanctioned for nearly 300 tribal beneficiaries were allegedly embezzled by some influential middlemen and local operators. The suspected scam is reported to have exceeded Rs 3 crore.
The minister, accompanied by senior officials including the Cuttack district collector and local BJP leaders reviewed the implementation of the rural housing scheme and directed officials to conduct an impartial inquiry and submit a report to the department. He asserted that strict action will be initiated against anyone found involved in corruption or misappropriation of public funds.
Reiterating the state government’s commitment towards transparency and welfare delivery, Naik said the government under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi is working towards the vision of ‘Viksit Gaon, Viksit Odisha’ and ensuring that every genuine beneficiary receives his or her rightful entitlements.
“The protection of poor people’s interests and maintaining administrative transparency remain our top priorities,” the minister said.