Barwani (Madhya Pradesh): Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) leader Medha Patkar levelled serious allegations with regard to work allocated under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) in the district.
Besides, Patkar raised questions about illegal mining along Narmada river banks in Barwani district. “Illegal mining is on and if the situation does not improve soon, we will take to streets,” she remarked.
She said mining is underway on land affected by Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP). National Green Tribunal said the land affected by SSP cannot be used for other purpose. No mining lease can be given on this land as per rules nor machines can be used.
The NBA leader who is on visit to Bhadal gram panchayat in Barwani district said work under MGNREGA is allocated on paper as no work was carried out in the village since October 2020.
Mining in Barwani district |
“But on the basis of online entries, employment was given 11 times at 11 places from December to May. We were surprised when some people got an SMS on their mobile phone about money being deposited in their bank account after which all the information was collected. It was found that people of Semalt, Limbi village were give employment but they were shown as residents of Bhadal village,” she said.
She alleged that many people did not get the money even though their name was mentioned in online entry. Patkar said complaint was made and the case was investigated. “Accused are avoiding queries, saying that payment was released for previous work,” she added.
Patkar further said District Panchayat CEO refused to say anything in front of camera. All he said was that investigation is on into the matter.
