Telangana PR Funds: Union Minister Seeks Probe into Alleged Misuse

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar has formally requested investigations into the release and utilisation of Panchayat Raj (PR) funds in Telangana. In separate letters to Union Panchayati Raj Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh and Telangana Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister D. Anasuya Seethakka, Mr. Sanjay Kumar raised concerns about potential deviations from the norms set by the Central Finance Commission (CFC).

The Minister called for a thorough probe to verify whether restrictions on the use of untied grants were followed. He urged authorities to compare official records, identify systemic lapses, and recommend corrective measures to ensure strict adherence to CFC guidelines.

Mr. Sanjay Kumar's request follows allegations that PR funds were diverted towards salaries and office expenses instead of basic amenities like drinking water and sanitation. The Telangana Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Department has denied these claims. The Minister emphasised the need for an impartial inquiry to resolve the matter.

He noted that several public representatives from his Karimnagar parliamentary constituency, including sarpanches and other elected officials, brought the issue to his attention.