IANS | 22 Sep, 2023
Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Friday raised concern over
state’s financial situation, saying its debt has increased by
approximately Rs 50,000 crore during the one and a half year helm of the
AAP government.
Responding to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s
letter to him regarding the release of the Rural Development Fund (RDF)
from the Centre, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to serving the
people while highlighting the complexities surrounding the RDF issue
that is currently sub-judice.
The Governor expressed his
dedication to his duty of serving the people of Punjab and acknowledged
the Chief Minister’s request for his intervention in taking up the RDF
case of Rs 5,637 crore with the Prime Minister of India.
However,
the Governor in a letter to the Chief Minister replied, “the matter is
currently sub-judice and that the Chief Minister had already approached
the Supreme Court before seeking his involvement.”
The Governor emphasised the importance of respecting the due process of law and awaiting the judicial decision on the matter.
He said allowing the judicial decision to unfold would be appropriate before taking any further action on this issue.
To
facilitate a more informed approach in addressing the RDF matter, the
Governor asked the Chief Minister to provide detailed information
regarding the utilisation of this substantial amount of debt.
This
information, the Governor believes, will enable him to effectively
present the case to the Prime Minister and demonstrate that the funds
have been utilised in a responsible and beneficial manner for the people
of Punjab.