CM contradicting own decision, says Bedi

In a WhatsApp message, the Lt Governor said the Chief Minister has been reminded that as per the notification issued in January last year it was decided, to which he is a part, that the Pongal gift is limited to red card holders only and not for Above Poverty Line (APL) card holders.

Providing copies of the notifications to substantiate her claim, Bedi pointed out that it is true that the money for implementing the scheme to even BPL families is being chipped off from the free rice scheme meant for the poor and what will the Chief Minister tell them now. 

Reiterating that there is no exclusive funds earmarked for the Pongal gift, Bedi said that it is confirmed that the money will be spent from the civil supplies department funds.

She regretted that the Chief Minister uses his public platform to spread false information all the time and is violating his own gazettes scheme when he demands Pongal gift for all the APL families.

Stating that the scheme is not applicable for APL families, the Lt Governor said that the Chief Minister must tell the people that the money to provide Pongal gift for the BPL families is being sliced off from their rice scheme.

“When full money is not available for rice scheme, he will blame the L-G office for not providing the funds,” she asserted.