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| COVID-19 free mask scam surfaces in Bandipora | | | Saahil Suhail
Early Times Report
Srinagar, Sept 2: The authorities in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district have allegedly misappropriated and embezzled lakhs of rupees under the cover of ‘Free Face Mask’ distribution, Early Times learnt from official sources on Wednesday.
According to official sources, the authorities in nexus with an influential businessman have fraudulently withdrawn lakhs from the state exchequer on account of procurement of masks which they never procured or distributed.
“The Bandipora district administration was allowed to procure 3.71 lakh double layer face masks and distribute it among poor families living below the poverty line. The required quantity was procured accordingly and distributed among the poor families by the Rural Development Department but now shocking details are emerging as payment has been drawn for over 5 lakh masks,” an official said, however he wished anonymity.
The officer said that those officials, who were dealing with COVID-19 procurements, have surprisingly released lakhs to several beneficiaries including unregistered self-help groups on account of procurement of face masks.
“3.71 Lakh face masks were procured and distributed accordingly among the poor families as per the directions of the government but how payment has been released for 5 lakh masks,” he added.
They said that officials have faked the distribution of over 1.5 lakh face masks and later have fraudulently withdrawn around lakhs from the state exchequer.
Sources said that the officials haven’t only faked the distribution of free face masks but have also procured sub-standard masks from the businessman.
“As per the specifications, the officials were supposed to procure double layer masks but they have procured single layer masks and value each procured mask can’t be more than Rs 3,” they added, saying each single layer mask has been procured at an exorbitant rate.
They have claimed that the district administration had procured beds and blankets on exorbitant rates for quarantine centers.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora wasn’t available for comment. |
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