GP meets to be videographed

Measure aimed at bringing transparency in MGNREGS implementation

Speaking to reporters, he said all gram panchayats have been directed to install video recording equipment using funds under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).

In case of any complaint of irregularities, the recording will come in handy to look into it, he added.

The RD&PR department, official sources said, has already begun video recording the proceedings of some gram panchayats on an experimental basis.

A decision has now been taken to extend it to all gram panchayats. Besides, the department has been taking steps to appoint Accounts Assistants in all GPs for maintaining accounts.

This will help the department to conduct proper social audit, sources said. Shettar said that executive officers of nine taluk panchayats (TPs), including seven in Mandya district and one in Bangalore South taluk, were suspended recently following complaints of irregularities in MGNREGS. Criminal action will be taken if charges are proved.

Punishment

The department has already given permission to prosecute Bangalore South Taluk Panchayat executive officer for violating the Transparency Act, he added.

The department has taken action against 300 executive officers and members of gram panchayats in the last one year, he said. “We are receiving a lot of complaints of nepotism in selecting beneficiaries  under the scheme at GP level. All complaints are being looked into seriously.

Directions have been issued to the officials to make the payment only after inspecting the work,” he stated.

The minister said the department is also planning to introduce live telecast of meetings of gram panchayats in their limits. Shiraguppe GP near Hubli-Dharwad has already started the telecast in its limits, he added.

- All Gram Panchayats to instal video recording equipment under MGNREG Scheme.

-  Accounts Assistants to be appointed in all GPs to ensure proper social audit

- The initiative to check increasing irregularities in implementing the employment guarantee scheme.

- Nearly 300 executive
officers and members of GPs punished last year for violating the regulations.