Oppn stages walkout in C'garh Assly

Raipur, Jul 9 (UNI) The main Opposition Congress today staged a walkout in the Chhattisgarh Assembly, alleging irregularities in awarding of a contract worth Rs 350 crore for constructing houses under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission.

During the Question Hour, Mohammed Akbar (Cong) asked about who had been awarded the contract to construct houses in Raipur and Bilaspur under the scheme and whether the state Government had control over the HPL, which was a central undertaking.

He questioned what action could be taken if the HPL awarded the contract to ineligible candidates.

Urban Administration Minister Amar Agrawal said contract of houses had been awarded through the HPL, which would be liable for returning entire amount in case of violation of terms. The Raipur Municipal Corporation and the Bilaspur Municipal Corporation has provided Rs 43.45 crore and Rs seven crore to the HPL.

The Minister said the HPL could award contract to other people and can take action against those violating terms of contract.

Dissatisfied with the reply, Congress members made noisy scenes and walked out of the House.

UNI XC-PS GL HT1622