Vigilance tribunal reserves decision on Phek DC complex issue

After hearing on the  case pertaining to violation of NPWD code, when  the EE (CAWD) had issued work orders for water supply, sanitation and electrification even before construction of the office complex of the deputy commissioner Phek was completed, the State Vigilance Commission court Monday reserved its judgment till further orders.

In addition to issuing work orders for the above, the EE (CAWD) also allegedly released full payment in 2009 to the contractor without any work being done.

Following various complaints by public and organisations of Phek, a suo moto   case was registered after which it was taken over by the State Vigilance Commission   on July 19, 2011.

Various organizations in Phek including the Phek Area Public Organization (PAPO) in June 2011 expressed shock over rampant corruption where Rs.27 lakh was released and drawn for no works done, while the construction of the complex was only half-complete.

Even the NCSU, Phek Unit had on June 23, 2011 pointed out various anomalies and loopholes in the construction works of the DC’s Complex. In addition, the 19 Phek A/C had backed the NCSU Phek unit in demanding a probe by a fact finding committee and meting out punishment on those involved.

Petitions were filed on September 25, 2012 by– Küzholüzo (Azo) Nienu (minister of H&FW), Neiba Kronu (deputy chairman SPB) and Z. Lohe (advisor to CM) through their respective personal secretaries- demanding a probe. The three were also called as witnesses at Monday’s hearing.

Those who are expected to depose before the tribunal court included the chief engineer, additional chief engineer and officers of the NPWD.

Meanwhile, speaking to Nagaland Post minister for health & family welfare Küzholüzo (Azo) Nienu described the case as “very serious” as the then EE (CAWD) had violated all norms and procedures of the NPWD code.

He said there existed no provision under the NPWD for issue any work orders for water supply, sanitation and electricity when the construction works of the building were not even completed.

Neinu also said the public of Phek district were keenly watching the case as to what action would be taken against the erring officer. Neinu also expressed optimism that the court would deliver justice to the people of Phek district.

Z. Lohe, advisor to the chief minister argued that even if some politicians might have issued recommendations verbally or in writing to issue work orders, it did not mean that executive officers can violate rules and procedures.

Lohe asserted that anyone found guilty in the case should be punished as per the law of the land. Deputy chairman (SPB) Neiba Kronu was however unavailable for comment.