WARD COUNCILOR BOYCOTTS BUDGET MEETING OVER FAILURE TO PROVIDE EXPENDITURE DETAILS

WARD COUNCILOR BOYCOTTS BUDGET MEETING OVER FAILURE TO PROVIDE EXPENDITURE DETAILS

15-MARCH-ENG 5

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA----------------------------Serious questions regarding administrative functioning and financial transparency have been raised during the recent budget meeting of the Shahpur Nagar Panchayat. Kameshwar Raj, the Councilor for Ward No. 04, boycotted this crucial meeting and leveled serious allegations against the Nagar Panchayat administration. Speaking to the media, Councilor Kameshwar Raj stated that no concrete action has yet been taken on a significant proposal he submitted for the construction of a public toilet in the market area. He asserted that disregarding the basic needs of the local populace is a matter of grave concern.

Raising questions regarding financial transparency, the Councilor expressed his bewilderment regarding the draft budget, describing it as overly complex and difficult to comprehend. According to him, the administration failed to disclose key figures—specifically, the total funds received from the government, the amount expended, and the remaining balance. Citing the previous budget session, he noted that he had requested details regarding expenditures across various heads on that occasion as well, but received nothing more than mere assurances.

Discussing the role of the Executive Officer, Councilor Raj recalled that during last year's meeting, he had explicitly demanded a written account of the finances. At that time, the officer had given an assurance that the details would be provided; however, to this day, no information—neither verbal nor written—has been shared.

Clarifying his firm stance, Kameshwar Raj stated that he did not deem it appropriate to sit as a mere mute spectator in the meeting without access to concrete information and financial accounts. As an elected representative, he emphasized, it is his responsibility to oversee development works and ensure the proper utilization of public funds. He argued that if the administration fails to share complete details and financial statements, there is no utility in participating in such formal meetings. The Councilor's move underscores the critical need for accountability and transparency within the Nagar Panchayat administration.