(TNT)
The much-hyped Pradhan Mantri Ujala Yojana (PMUY) scheme which was meant to benefit the people living below the power line has however, turned out to be a cause of anguish for the people of Garo Hills.
Irregularities in the implementation of this scheme has surfaced in the plain belt of West Garo Hills (WGH) after resident complained that the beneficiaries of the PMUY were overcharged for the free gas connection that they are eligible for.
Under PMUY, below poverty line (BPL) families have been earmarked to benefit through paying a minimum of about Rs 1750 for a single cylinder (something that normally comes for about Rs 4000), in an effort to ensure clean and safe cooking methods to those that cannot afford it.
However, residents of the plain belt, who are being supplied the same BPL gas connections, are being charged Rs 2500 for the same cylinders with the suppliers asking for the extra amount on account of transport. Suppliers were also alleged of refusing to provide a payment slip to the customers on the extra amount. The gas agency under question has been identified as Chenasa Gas Agency, which supplies the Rajabala area from where the complaints emanated.
“From sources, we have come to know that the amount payable comes to about Rs 1750. However they are charging Rs 2500 per cylinder. This is grossly unfair and amounts to cheating and as such the same needs to be stopped and the guilty people booked under provisions of the law,” said general secretary of Anti Corruption League (ACL) who first brought the matter to light.
