J&K Govt Allocates Rs 14.85 Cr for New Scorpio Vehicles for MLAs; Concerns Raised Over Expenditure
Jammu, Oct 22: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has sanctioned Rs 14.85 crore for the procurement of 90 new Mahindra Scorpio vehicles for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). According to an official order issued by Niraj Kumar, Secretary of the Transport Department, the funds will be drawn from the state’s Motor Garages capital expenditure budget for the financial year 2024-25.
The order specified that the advance funds would be placed at the disposal of the Director of Motor Garages, J&K, who will oversee the entire procurement process. The vehicles will be purchased via an e-tendering process on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) platform, in strict adherence to the General Financial Rules (GFR) of 2017, ensuring transparency in the procurement.
The Government has also directed the Director of Motor Garages and the Accounts Officer to ensure that the allocated funds are used solely for this specific purpose and not diverted for any other expenditures. Moreover, the Utilization Certificates and Red Accounts for the advance withdrawal must be submitted by March 31, 2025. To safeguard the transaction, the Government mandated that the advance payments for the vehicles must be properly secured and guaranteed.
While the official order formalizes the move, it has sparked debate, with some experts expressing concern over the necessity and timing of such a significant expenditure. Critics argue that the allocation may not be prudent, given the state’s ongoing financial challenges and the pressing need for funds in other developmental areas.
One expert, who requested anonymity, questioned the Government’s decision to spend Rs 14.85 crore on vehicles for legislators, calling it a “frivolous” expense. “This substantial amount could have been allocated for more urgent developmental needs across the state, such as infrastructure or social welfare initiatives, rather than purchasing new vehicles for MLAs,” the expert stated.
Another expert raised concerns over the need for new vehicles, pointing out that the government still retains the vehicles used by legislators before 2018 when the previous administration was dissolved. “These existing vehicles could have been utilized instead of spending a large sum on new ones. The move raises questions about the government’s priorities,” the expert noted.
Despite these concerns, the Government appears committed to proceeding with the procurement, emphasizing the adherence to proper financial protocols and transparency. However, the decision is likely to fuel further debate on the UT’s fiscal management and priorities, especially as the expenditure comes at a time when the UT is still recovering from various economic challenges.
