MLA seeks power to use development funds

Patna: BJP MLA Pramod Kumar expressed anguish during Question Hour on Thursday, saying that although an MLA has a fund of Rs 4 crore, he cannot commit to building toilets or libraries in schools if requested. “Tukur tukur takte rahte hain hujur (keep staring in the blank),” he said, urging the govt to grant MLAs proper authority to utilise funds under the Mukhyamantri Kshetra Vikas Yojana for libraries, school toilets, renovation of ancient temples and sports equipment for youth.He said many schemes are implemented uniformly in NDA-ruled states, but Bihar is excluded from such arrangements, which he termed unfair. “If we attend a programme at a DAV school and are asked to build a toilet or a platform, we are unable to do anything. If we go to inaugurate a sports event and children demand bats and balls, we are left speechless,” he said.He reiterated that despite having Rs 4 crore, MLAs are unable to undertake such works. In neighbouring states such as Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh, schools and institutions have been developed with support from public representatives, he said.In Bihar, rules prohibit MLAs from using funds to build school libraries, provide materials to registered institutions, construct community buildings, beautify temples, build marriage halls or develop Dalit settlements. They may only recommend works while the department concerned takes the final decision.Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav said he would look into the matter and take action accordingly.Pramod inadvertently referred to the Speaker as a bodyguard instead of custodian, prompting laughter in the House. He later withdrew his remark, calling it a slip of the tongue.In another matter, assembly Speaker Prem Kumar directed the PHED minister to install water tanks on school rooftops to ensure adequate drinking water supply.