Fresh allegations of irregularities in the implementation of MGNREGA projects have surfaced in Assam’s Nagaon district, with residents of Singia Gaon Panchayat under the Juria Development Block accusing officials and local representatives of procedural violations and poor-quality execution of development works.
According to local residents, several projects undertaken under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) during the 2024–25 financial year were allegedly carried out without adhering to prescribed norms. Villagers have raised concerns over the quality of work and the manner in which public funds were utilised.
Particular attention has been drawn to an agricultural embankment project located in Ward No. 5 of the panchayat, connecting East Singaria Mosque to Baniya Bidal. Residents alleged that the work completed on the ground does not correspond with the sanctioned estimates, leading to questions about the implementation of the project and expenditure incurred.
Villagers have further alleged that the panchayat’s Gram Rozgar Sevak (GRS), Abdullah Faruqi, and Assistant Engineer Biswajit Das were involved in overseeing and executing the works. Some local representatives have also been accused by residents of allegedly colluding in the reported irregularities.
Additional allegations include the installation of project signboards in violation of established guidelines and the execution of only limited work despite the release of funds under the rural employment scheme.
Demanding accountability, local residents have urged Assam Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Atul Bora to order a detailed investigation into the allegations and ensure appropriate action against anyone found responsible following an inquiry.
