₹722.81 Crore Recovery Pending in Gujarat Panchayats, Records Missing

A report presented by the Panchayati Raj Committee in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly has raised questions over financial management in district and taluka panchayats. The report said that recovery of ₹722.81 crore is pending, but the government does not have proper records showing from whom the money has to be recovered.

No Proper Record of Recovery

The audit covered a long period from 1963-64 to 2012-13. It found that money remained pending for recovery from individuals, contractors and organizations. However, the current records do not clearly show how much money has to be recovered from each person or organization.

The report also pointed to a lack of follow-up over several decades. Proper accounts were not maintained and action was not taken to recover the pending amounts. As a result, the recovery amount has continued to remain pending in government records.

There is also no clear information available about the present status of the people or organisations from whom the money has to be recovered. The report raises questions about whether the concerned individuals are still alive, where they are now and whether the government has taken steps to recover the money.

Committee Seeks Action

The committee has made strict recommendations regarding the recovery of the pending amount. It stressed the need for proper records and follow-up so that government money can be recovered.

The report has also raised questions about the role of officials responsible for monitoring these cases. It points to gaps in accounting and follow-up at the district and taluka panchayat levels.

With ₹722.81 crore still shown as pending recovery, the report has highlighted the need for the government to identify the responsible individuals, contractors and organizations and take further action according to the records and rules.