Civic body expenses go unchecked

In an order passed previously,it was decided that in the case of an inauguration where the Mayor or Municipal Commissioner are present,the MC would make expenditure. However,if only the councillor was involved with the inauguration the civic body would not pay. This rule is rarely followed.

The councillors have made a habit of holding inauguration for almost everything. Whether it is for a renovated greenbelt or a fountain installed at some place or even a renovated community centre,functions are held for all occasions.

A councillor opines that it is a way of highlighting their achievements for the ward. The residents of the area are invited for the function and they get to see the new additions and facilities provided for them. With elections this year it is important to highlight the achievements.

For the functions,cards are printed and distributed throughout the ward. The gathering of people varies and at times hundreds of guests are present. The cost of a function can go up to Rs 40,000 or at times more depending on how many people have been invited.

Councillor Dr A P Sanwaria said that the expenditure on such functions is not required,“Lakhs of rupees of the tax payers money are being spent on such functions. There is no budget head for such expenditure nor is a limit set on how much money can be spent,” he said.

Dr Sanwaria has now asked the officials to furnish details of functions in each ward and the expenditure on these functions. He has also sought details on the budgetary provisions for the functions.

Additional Commissioner Lalit Siwach said that the Accounts Department would be asked to furnish the details of the expenditure on the functions.