No pre-audit of projects that may cost Rs 1 crore more: Haryana govt

GURUGRAM: The local audit department of Haryana has withdrawn an order mandating a pre-audit in case estimates of development works amounting to Rs 1 crore or above are enhanced at a later stage.
The local audit department Haryana, in August, issued the order, making it clear that if estimates of development works amounting to Rs 1 crore or above are enhanced, the same would need to be pre-audited with immediate effect. The order was issued with an aim to curb embezzlement of funds.
"No bill of any type and amount is to be sent to the head office for pre-audit. It may be ensured that enhancement beyond 10% is duly approved by the administrative secretary, ULB (urban local bodies department)...," read the order.
However, the local audit department of Haryana should be given information about the original cost of development work and other relevant details, officials have said.
"The pre-audit order has now been withdrawn, paving the way for corrupt practices. The system of pre-audit would have also saved officials from the unnecessary pressure of approving the inflated estimates," said a senior MCG official, seeking anonymity.