Panel to probe errors in work under sub-divisions

Councillor Sharma had demanded details of the quotations approved for various works under different sub-divisions between April 2007 and March 2008. He pointed out various irregularities in the quotations during the House Meet today.

A sub-divisional officer can invite quotations up to Rs 50,000 and an executive engineer up to Rs 1 lakh for a particular work. Sharma pointed out that for the same work,more than one quotation was invited within a few days or on the same day. This was done to split the total amount,he claimed.

Sharma further pointed out that fans were provided in the room of an XEN at Rs 18,000 even as the request for two fans at a community centre in Sector 8 was rejected. He said quotations were invited to provide temporary streetlights in various sectors and while payments were made,the lights were never installed.

In response,the MC officials said the CBI was already inquiring into the case of the streetlights. The officials came under a scathing attack from the councillors who stated that while they raise questions in every House Meet,no action is taken on their demands. The councillors added that there was no system in the corporation and demanded transparency and accountability.

Councillor Dr Amrit Bolaria said that a system of internal and external audit be introduced in the MC and a balance sheet be given to the Mayor,Municipal Commissioner and the councillors at the end of every month.

Councillor M P S Chawla suggested that they could seek permission from the Administration to have an internal and external audit for one year.

If it works then it could be continued,he added.

Mayor Kamlesh stated that a seven member committee,comprising members of all parties,would be constituted to probe the discrepancies. She said that permission would be sought from the Administration for an internal and external audit,adding that all works under the non-plan head should be brought to the notice of the committees concerned.