Dustbin scam raises a stink

Nitish Sharma

Tribune News Service

Ambala June 24

In the Naraingarh segment of Ambala district, officials and panchayat members have allegedly bought dustbins bought under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan at exorbitant rates.

‘Whistleblower’ Dharamvir Dhindsa, an advocate, claimed that dustbins placed in various villages had been shown in official records to have cost Rs 3,500-4,000 each, whereas dustbins of the same quality and specifications were available in the market at Rs 1,200 each.

Dhindsa alleged similar irregularities in the case of streetlights and submersible pumps. He said during the Congress regime, “poor quality” streetlights were installed in villages. As a result, most of these had developed a snag and were now “defunct.”

“Submersible pumps were to be installed at public places, but panchayat officials got these installed at private properties of relatives. As per the rules, sealed quotations must be invited or there should be open bidding. But none of these procedures were followed,” he alleged.  

In a complaint to Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, Dhindsa has pleaded that the matter be probed and action be taken against the “corrupt” officials.  Ambala Deputy Commissioner Prabhjot Singh said, “The matter has been brought to our notice and all Block Development and Panchayat Officers (BDPOs) have been directed to submit their reports.”

Fact file 

‘Whistleblower’ Dharamvir Dhindsa claimed that dustbins placed in various villages had been shown in official records to have cost Rs 3,500-4,000 each, whereas dustbins of the same quality and specifications were available in the market at  Rs 1,200 each.