Kullu panchayat under scanner for fund misuse

Mandi, February 14

Khokhan panchayat is under the scanner for ‘embezzlement’ of funds in Kullu district.

According to sources, a fund of around Rs 53,000 was reportedly embezzled. A departmental inquiry had been initiated against panchayat office-bearers and secretary had been suspended.

An investigation was under way and the Block Development Officer was to check the documents of panchayat. But the miscreants burnt panchayat premises on February 10 in which the record was turned to ashes.

Bimla Bhatti, District Panchayat Officer, Kullu, said there was a complaint against panchayat office-bearers that they were involved in embezzlement of fund. The investigation was in the last stage and final report was awaited. She said panchayat secretary Chet Ram had been suspended, while action would be taken against others accordingly after the submission of report. — TNS