SRINAGAR: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday voiced concerns over alleged bias and irregularities in the disbursement of material cost payments under the MGNREGA scheme in Jammu and Kashmir. The party warned that such practices are undermining rural welfare and pushing an already fragile economy deeper into distress.
In a statement, senior PDP leader Ajaz Ahmad Mir criticised the administration for what he described as a “pick-and-choose approach” that is turning a key rural employment programme into “a machine of corruption and discrimination.”
“Despite official assurances of streamlined implementation, contractors across the Union Territory have been waiting for months for their dues. Their bills are gathering dust, no new work is being initiated, and the rural employment sector is grinding to a halt,” Mir stated.
Citing specific grievances in Imam Sahib, Shopian, Mir said contractors have staged protests against what they allege are discriminatory practices in the release of payments. He said the delays and arbitrary payment patterns are eroding confidence in the government’s commitment to equitable governance.
Mir urged the administration to ensure payments are released as per the approved online lists and that no halqa (village administrative unit) is left out of the process. “Disbursal must be full and fair across all halqas to uphold transparency, maintain public trust, and safeguard the livelihoods of those dependent on these schemes,” he added.
The PDP said that if corrective measures are not taken promptly, the credibility of flagship welfare schemes like MGNREGA may be permanently damaged in the eyes of the rural population.
