SHILLONG : KHADC Executive Member and Mawthadraishan MDC Powell Sohkhlet has raised concerns over the allocation of funds for repairing 180 government lower primary schools in Meghalaya, alleging partiality in the distribution.
According to Sohkhlet, Eastern West Khasi Hills district has been left behind, receiving funds for only 8 schools, despite having over 80 government lower primary schools, many of which are in poor condition.
“In comparison, West Garo Hills has been allotted 38 schools, West Jaintia Hills 29, East Khasi Hills 19, East Jaintia Hills 9, and West Khasi Hills 8,” Sohkhlet said, questioning the disparity.
While appreciating the government’s initiative to repair and renovate schools, Sohkhlet said the allocation process appears biased. “Most schools in Eastern West Khasi Hills are in a dilapidated state, yet only a few have been sanctioned funds,” he added.
He also suggested that part of the Rs 125 crore fund meant for deficit and adhoc schools should be utilized for infrastructure development. “Teachers in these schools are paid by the government, but maintenance of buildings is left to school management committees. Why not include them in this funding?” he asked.
Sohkhlet further called for transparency in the implementation of funds. He urged village dorbars and school management committees to ensure that contractors execute the work properly and that the funds benefit students directly.