It has been reported that an inquiry by the Lokayukta has been demanded by the BJP, regarding the non-utilization of INR 606.3 crore collected for COVID-19 relief by the CM’s fund. According to information received through the Right to Information (RTI) Act, a mere 24 per cent of the INR 799 crore in the Maharashtra Chief Minister’s COVID-19 fund has been utilized.
Based on reports, Keshav Upadhye, the BJP spokesperson, elaborated on how it is shocking that whilst the state had funds, it criticized the centre while seeking commodities to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
Upadhye believes that in the last two years, the MVA government has only undertaken recovery work. Adding that whilst it agreed to collect funds for COVID-19 relief from the citizens, it only used 25 per cent of it.
Further, he elucidated how expenditure worth almost INR 15 crore has been undertaken on advertisements by the state government. Thus, he is of the opinion that the remaining INR 600 crore is left unutilized as the COVID-19 hit population reels under financial ramifications.
Upadhye mentioned that throughout the coronavirus pandemic, instances of corruption have been brought to light. According to him, this includes the Lokayukta proclaiming an inquiry into the setting up of the BKC COVID-19 care centre.
He states that the public needs to know the result of the inquiry and asks if files were suppressed. He then also mentioned that the government had proclaimed financial assistance of INR 50 lakh to the kin of local self-government institutes personnel that succumbed during their COVID-19 duty.
Also Read: Mumbai: In 2 Years, Anti-Corruption Bureau Receives 6,213 Financial Misconduct Complaints
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