Detecting serious irregularities in the implementation of the much-hyped Swachh Bharath Mission (SBM) aimed at ending open defecation in the tribal regions of Attappady, the Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (VACB) has initiated recovery of the plundered amount with 18% interest.
A detailed investigation carried out by the agency has found that a major share of the funds earmarked for the Open Defecation Free (ODF) scheme in Attappady had been channelised by non-tribals illegally with the tacit support of corrupt officials, local politicians, and intermediaries.
The mission to construct toilets failed to bring about any change in the lives of tribespeople in the rain shadow Attappady region where even finding water to meet drinking needs is a huge challenge. Officials have found that in a number cases, the funds were diverted by making minor alterations to existing toilets. In certain cases, just the toilet room was constructed, in such a way as to use it for storing dried cow dung and firewood. In some hamlets, just the pit was made.
According to VACB Circle Inspector K. Krishnankutty, a number of local body members and officials were involved in the scam. In Ward 7 of Puthur grama panchayat, the VACB found that 13 among the 79 sanctioned toilets are not in existence.
In Kulappadi ward of Agali grama panchayat, it found irregularities in the construction of seven toilets. In Ward 16 of Agali panchayat, the number of toilets not in existence is 18.
In Ward 12, 10 toilets went to those who already had toilet facilities. The investigation is fast progressing in all other wards of Puthur and Agali.
In Sholayur grama panchayat, the VACB has found 120 newly sanctioned toilets under ODF to be illegal.
In its first phase of action against erring officials, the VACB has recommended department-level action against the village extension officer of Puthur.
Each beneficiary had to receive ₹25,400 for the toilet facility and it included additional funds from the Palakkad district panchayat.
Based on an interim report submitted by VACB Dy.SP M.G. Sasidharan, District Collector P. Suresh Babu has started issuing notices to illegal beneficiaries directing them to return the sanctioned amount along with 18% interest. Till Tuesday, 20 notices have been issued.