Shillong: RTI activist Disparsing Rani has revealed that the Government of India has released ₹541 crore under the 100 Days Work (MGNREGS) scheme for Meghalaya in the financial year 2024–25.
Speaking on Tuesday, Rani said he wanted to clarify the matter following growing public concern over the delay in wage payments.
He also alleged that several Public Information Officers (PIOs) have failed to provide information sought under RTI. Rani has given them one month’s time to comply, warning that failing which, he will file a complaint before the Chief Information Commissioner (CIC). He cited, for instance, an RTI filed regarding the proposed stadium in Kynshi, Eastern West Khasi Hills, where no reply was furnished.
On another RTI concerning NEIGRIHMS and trading licenses, Rani alleged that several non-tribals are operating as contractors and urged the District Council to take necessary action. He further called on the Council to inspect shops suspected of being run under benami ownership. According to him, one way to detect such practices is by checking digital transactions through apps like GPay and PhonePe, where the account holder’s name often reveals the real ownership.
Additionally, Rani endorsed the grievances raised by contractors in Ri-Bhoi, who claimed that government contracts are being awarded only to those with political connections. He said RTI findings confirm such irregularities.
