Corruption Era Concludes Under Hemant: JMM Official Rebuts Marandi's Accusations
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Ranchi, Dec 2 (NationPress) As BJP leader Babulal Marandi alleged that the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM)-led state government embezzled Rs 2,812 crore, JMM leader Manoj Kumar Pandey on Monday dismissed the claims as 'unfounded.' He accused Marandi and the BJP of articulating such allegations out of frustration, asserting that the 'era of corruption has concluded under the Hemant Soren government.'
Marandi, in a message on X, stated, 'A significant case of embezzlement amounting to Rs 2,812 crore has emerged from the Jharkhand government treasury. This sum was withdrawn as an advance under AC-DC bills over the years, yet no account has been provided until now.' He added that the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) disclosed in its report that DC bills worth Rs 4,937 crore remain pending, with only Rs 1,698 crore adjusted. The report indicated that Rs 411 crore was withdrawn from the Rural Development Department by other departments without any accounting. It is mandated by regulations to utilize and document the amount withdrawn in advance within a month, yet numerous state government departments have disregarded this protocol for years. A high-level committee formed in March 2023 examined the situation, but no action has been taken following the report. This embezzlement case not only shows the government's negligence but also raises significant concerns regarding financial transparency.
In an interview with IANS, Manoj Kumar Pandey questioned Marandi’s understanding of governmental procedures, implying that he should have knowledge of the regulations given his previous role as Chief Minister.
'As he has also served as Chief Minister for two years, he should be well-acquainted with the rules and regulations.'
Pandey further criticized Marandi for leveling accusations without presenting concrete evidence, asserting that there is no embezzlement in the treasury.
'Allegations must be substantiated with facts, and it is crucial to discuss those facts beforehand. These are fundamental points; money does not just vanish.'
Pandey concluded by stating that the era of corruption has ended under the current Hemant Soren government, highlighting that the emphasis should be on tangible good governance instead of unfounded claims.
In November, the JMM-led coalition secured victory in 56 out of 81 Assembly constituencies in Jharkhand, marking it as the largest mandate in the state's history.
