Mumbai: The MVA government has issued orders that increase regional development funds for MLC and MLC to Rs 4 Crore.
“We cannot give approval to withdraw the previous funds because of the resource crisis during the pandemic.
Even last year, the release of funds was delayed,” said an official.
The MVA government unity has climbed MLA LAD by 100% since it was taken over.
Many feel this has been done with the eyes in a series of local body and city polls.
Even though the money did not go to the legislator, he gained popularity by being able to recommend local work in its election.
Funds available for legislators in other states such as Delhi are much higher.
Key Questions Still: How well is the scheme audited and whether good quality work and whether they survive.
MLA LAD funds are intended for use for development work in the legislative constituency.
MLC and MLC do not receive money under this scheme.
The government transfers it directly to each local authority.
Legislators can only recommend work in their constituencies based on a set of guidelines.
The decision where the project to be spent was taken by the legislator and the funds was disbursed through the district collector.
According to government resolutions issued by the Planning Department, the funds will be used for small works such as the construction of school rooms, Angganwadi centers, cremation land, toilets, and bus shelter.
Also, small dam kolhapur style.
The increase became necessary because of the increase in construction material costs and the need to maintain and improve existing structures, government resolution said.
Activists said the increase in legislator funds had been carried out with the eyes in a series of local polls later this year and next year.
“The country will face elections to major cities and zilla parishes.
Small development works like this helps popularize parties with locals,” an activist said.
“Increased MLA funds are commendable and welcome.
However, the warning is that each MLA must be able to show an increase in the development that can be justified and seen in the electoral district,” said Indrani Mankanni, Chair of the V Citizens Action Network.
“The use of funds must handle specific requirements, not just routine work,” he added.