PANJIM: Under the guise of the model code of conduct, the Goa government has stalled the release of monetary benefit to around 1.50 lakh beneficiaries of the Griha Aadhar scheme since December 2016. However, the Chief Electoral Office (CEO) has confirmed that the election process does not fetter the existing schemes.
The Directorate of Women and Child Department, the implementing agency for the government’s flagship scheme, stated that funds to beneficiaries cannot be released as the election code of conduct is in operation.
“The bills are not signed as the code of conduct is in force. The funds will be released only after the counting on March 11,” a WCD official told Herald conceding that monthly benefit of Rs 1,500 is kept on hold since December 2016.
The CEO has countered the department’s explanation arguing that ongoing schemes are not affected due to the election code. “Ongoing schemes will continue. No new beneficiary can be added nor any new scheme is permitted when the code of conduct is in force,” CEO Kunal said. This indicates that existing beneficiaries can continue to avail the benefit irrespective of the code of conduct.
The restriction nevertheless applies to yet another ambitious scheme of the government – Laadli Laxmi. While around 40,000 ‘laadlis’ have taken advantage the one-time benefit either for their marriage or higher education, new applicants will have to wait till the election code is lifted after the counting. WCD Minister Dilip Parulekar was not available for comment.
