J&K govt orders probe into inflated expenses by state body

Jammu and Kashmir government has ordered a probe into alleged spending of over Rs 12 crore within three months on Save Drinking Water project by Communication and Capacity Development Unit.

"Probe has been ordered into spendings in CCDU. A high level panel of four members has been constituted to inquire into utilisation of Rs 12.27 crore funds by CCDU," Minister of Public Health Engineering (PHE), Irrigation and Flood Control Sham Lal Sharma told PTI.

Soon after the probe was ordered, CCDU Executive Director Najeebullah resigned, which was rejected by the minister CCDU had spent Rs 12 crore during a short span of over three months in 2012 on Save Drinking Water project. The name of an NGO in Jharkhand has figured in the case, he said.

Sharma, who got command of the ministry after January 15 Cabinet reshuffle in Jammu and Kashmir, said the panel will be headed by Chief Engineer, Irrigation and Flood Control, Jammu, K K Gupta.

"The investigation would be done in time-bound manner and if it was proved, the case would be handed over to State Vigilance Organisation," Sharma said.

CCDU's Executive Najeebullah had resigned soon after the probe but the Minister had rejected it. He will have to face inquiry, the minister said.

Sharma, who commanded the State Health Ministry whichbagged two times best state in health care across India, said, "We want to bring transparency, accountability and best services to the people in drinking water supply, irrigation and flood control sectors"

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