Gujarat: Increase in MLA grants for development still only on paper

The Gujarat government has announced an increase in MLA grants for development in their constituencies from Rs 1 crore to Rs 1.50 crore annually, but it exists only on paper. In fact, the government has yet to finish paper work. The MLAs have been allegedly asked to propose development work within the old limit.

A delegation of Congress MLAs approached leader of opposition Paresh Dhanani and made a representation on Tuesday. Dr Asha Patel, MLA from Unjha, led the delegation.

"I prepared the proposals for development works in my constituency as per new announcement. But when I filed the proposal, the department official orally instructed me to give the proposal afresh as per old provision. I did not get the reason and so I made a representation before our leader," she said.

Dhanani has sought details from the planning department. "I have received complaints from our party legislators. Once the government makes such announcements, they should make sure it is implemented soon. After all, our MLAs are demanding for the sake of people," he said.

However, the planning department denied the allegations. "None of official from our department has given oral instruction to any MLA, but the announcement has not come under implementation as the government resolution has to be issued by our department. Because a long process is involved in this, it will take some time," said Sanjeev Kumar, secretary of planning department.