ACB submits RIHS scam investigation report

Shillong, Jan 6 (UNI) Meghalaya's Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has submitted their investigation report into the Rural Innovative Housing Scheme (RIHS) scam under Indira Awas Yojana, state secretary today said.

Former state minister in-charge Community and Rural Development, Beckstar K Sangma had been alleged to be involved in the scam.

''The ACB have submitted their preliminary findings and we are still studying the report before filing the FIR,'' state Chief Secretary S K Tewari told UNI here today.

Recently, the Gauhati High Court had directed Meghalaya government to register cases within two months against all officials and politicians involved in embezzlement of public funds from the various Blocks of Garo Hills.

ACB sleuths have arrested two Block Development Officers allegedly involved in the scam and one is at large.

Former Lok Sabha Speaker Purno A Sangma had unearthed the Rs 50 lakh scam last year.

Chief Minister J D Rymbai told reporters that, ''We dont want to tarnish anyone's image. We will act according to the findings.'' However, Mr Sangma had urged the government not to go for further investigation as the accused minister had acknowledged his misdeeds by returning the entire money to the government.

Sources said the minister was found to have presented bogus names of beneficiaries for the RIHS and siphoned Rs 50 lakh in favour of an NGO, Gambil Ading Women's Organisation, reportedly headed by his wife.

UNI