Vigilance likely to probe

IMPHAL, Jul 6: The State Vigilance Department is likely to register a case and investigate into the purchase of protective masks worth crores of rupees for distribution to MGNREGS workers.
Sources informed that Rural Development, MGN-REGA Division, New Delhi Deputy Secretary Sanjay Kumar sent a letter to Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Deputy Secretary on May 26 which categorically stated that MGNREGS workers should maintain social distance and wear face masks at work sites.
The same letter made it clear that expenditure incurred on purchasing masks and sanitisers cannot be booked under administrative expenses.
It then advised the State Government to promote use of homemade protective covers/masks.
However, two lakh protective masks meant for MGNREGS workers of Imphal East district were delivered to the office of Imphal East Zilla Parishad this afternoon.
These protective masks cost Rs 25 per piece but they do not have any trade mark.
Even though no tender was held for purchasing these masks and sanitisers, it is said that the amount spent on purchasing these items would be entered against the administrative expenses of MGNREGS.
Notably, the Central Government sanctioned around Rs 14 crore as maintenance fund for MGNREGS.
But it appears that some officials have been using this maintenance fund in purchasing masks and sanitisers in total contravention of rules and guidelines, said the sources.
As such, the State Vigilance Department may register a case and investigate the matter, the sources added.