Funds suspended, devp work takes a hit

NEW DELHI: With government funds to people’s representatives — Members of Parliament, Members of Legislative Assembly and Municipal Councillors — remaining suspended in view of austerity measures due to the coronavirus pandemic, residents have complained that several local development works such as repair of roads and parks, construction of drains, community centres and public toilets have taken a hit.

Rajiv Kakria, member of Greater Kailash-I Residents Welfare Association (RWA), said, “Already, MLAs in the city had informed us that they have not got their funds since March this year, so no new projects can be taken up. Now, MPLADs have also been suspended for as long as two years. What was the logic of unlocking the city when the elected representatives are not able to even help the taxpayers? These funds are allotted through the taxes we diligently pay.”

The Union Cabinet had decided in April to suspend the MP Local Area Development (MPLAD) fund for two years so that the money could be utilised for government’s efforts to fight the pandemic. Each MP can suggest taking up of works to the tune of ₹5 crore in his/her constituency. The Delhi government had suspended local area development funds to the MLAs in March. “MLALAD funds have been suspended because of Covid-19 related expenses. There is no proposal to resume payment of funds as of now,” Delhi urban development minister Satyendar Jain had informed the Delhi Assembly during a special oneday session held on Monday.