The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the State Assembly will investigate into the allegations of a massive scam in Sattu distribution in Balangir district for pregnant women and children.
PAC Chairman and leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra on Wednesday said, “The matter will be discussed in the PAC on July 4. All the concerned officers in Balangir district have been notified in this regard. This is the food of children and expectant mothers. So, the PAC has taken the issue very seriously,” Mishra added.
The PAC’s move came after the scam was exposed through Right to Information (RTI) by activist Anang Kumar Thakur.
Balangir district Collector Ashish Thakre said the Sub-Collector has begun a probe and action would be taken as per the inquiry report. “We have ordered a detailed inquiry and will take action based on the report. All Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) have been asked to give information on the matter. We have a zero-tolerance policy on irregularities in children’s food,” said Thakre.
Notably, it is alleged that the Maa Sabitri self-help group (SHG), which was given charge of Sattu distribution, had received nearly Rs 1.44 core for the purpose from 2011 to 2015. But it had submitted bills of a shop in Balangir town’s main road.
Public Accounts panel to conduct probe But no such shop exists. Besides, in the bill no CST or TIN numbers are there. It is also alleged that as the SHG’s president is an influential BJD activist, the district administration is turning a blind eye to the scam.