Minister accused of nepotism

SHILLONG, MAR 11: NPP legislator James Sangma on Wednesday accused the PWD department of nepotism in awarding contracts and clearing bills.  “It is sad that a leader heading the ministry is engaging in favoritism,” Sangma told the assembly.

Sangma said even as he emphasized the need for the state government to take transparency and accountability seriously during the debate on the governor’s address.  Holding a list of PWD contract works, he said that most of works were awarded to the brother or those having blood relation with the minister.

Sangma questioned, “What I am saying is this right when your brother engaging in contract work that you continue holding that portfolios. This is morally very wrong.” He said that one need not be Einstein to put two and two together.

Sangma said just because a minister have a brother, he end up abusing his position and office he hold which is wrong.

Stating that because of financial crisis in the state contractors are not getting their payment, but Sangma pointed out, “But the Sohra Division has release one payment of about Rs 3 crores which was made to the minister’s own brother.”  He thundered “This has to stop.” He said some solution to end this has to be found.-By Our Reporter