Photo Courtesy: nenow
Shillong: The A·chik State Peoples’ Front is demanding a full-time Block Development Officer for the Songsak C&RD block in East Garo Hills. The group submitted a formal complaint to the Meghalaya Commissioner of the Community and Rural Development Department. They claim the current BDO, a veterinarian holding the post for over two years, is rarely available. This dual role has stalled development and blocked wage payments.
ASPF general secretary Bernita Marak claims the group verified complaints from Village Employment Council leaders. The current setup violates the 90-day limit for additional charges set by the Personnel Department. The group wants the veterinarian back in his parent department immediately. Disruptions are hurting the locals. Urgent action is required.
The ASPF report alleges the BDO ignored Gram Sabha resolutions regarding road projects. Officials supposedly swapped planned concrete pavement for expensive paver blocks without justification. Public Works Department rates show CC pavement costs roughly Rs 850 per square metre, while paver blocks hit up to Rs 1,600. The group suspects this discrepancy leads to incomplete work.
Intimidation tactics are now part of the mess. ASPF alleges the BDO threatened to slash material funds if council secretaries questioned these changes. Such behavior violates the Meghalaya Civil Services Conduct Rules. The organization is calling for a full inquiry into the intimidation and financial records, including all Measurement Books and work orders. They want pending bills settled within 15 days of a new appointment.
Marak emphasized the group has no personal vendetta against the doctor. “Our concern is purely administrative and rooted in public interest. We are supporting the genuine difficulties raised by the VECs of Songsak Block,” she said. The department must act now to restore order.
Comments