Cong leader refutes MLA's allegations

Somwarpet block Congress president K M Lokesh brushed aside the allegation that District in-charge Minister K J George was responsible for the returning of funds meant for development works in the district.

Addressing a press conference, here, on Thursday, Lokesh was reacting to MLA M P Appachu Ranjan’s allegations that George was responsible for non-completion of development works (non-utilisation of funds within the stipulated time), resulting in the funds going back to the government.

Lokesh said, the Minister had played a pro-active role in getting sufficient funds for the development of the district.

“It is the responsibility of the officials of various departments to prepare action plans and spend the money for development. It is also the responsibility of the MLAs concerned to convene progress review meetings periodically and direct the officials to execute the works on time,” he said.

Asking the MLAs to introspect on the number of progress review meetings held during the past one year, Lokesh alleged that the BJP leaders were hindering the development of the district.

“The BJP is in power in the Zilla Panchayat and also three Taluk Panchayats in the district. If the BJP leaders have the will, they can discuss the progress of the works at their respective fora and see to it that the funds are utilised,” he added.

Block Congress spokesperson Sathish, youth wing president Chetan, town unit president Ramesh and secretary Indresh were present.