Maharashtra: Govt Sanctions ₹1.32 Crore For 4 Luxury SUVs For Lokayukta Office Despite Drought Crisis In 265 Talukas
Mumbai: Amid drought conditions across parts of Maharashtra, the state government's General Administration Department has sanctioned around Rs 1.32 crore for the purchase of four vehicles for members of the Lokayukta office. According to reports, around Rs 33 lakh has been sanctioned for each Innova Hycross (ZX-7S), taking the total expenditure on the four vehicles to approximately Rs 1.32 crore.…
The state government of Maharashtra has allocated nearly Rs 1.32 crore for four luxury SUVs intended for members of the Lokayukta office, amid a severe drought crisis affecting 265 of the state's 358 talukas. Each of the four vehicles, specifically the Innova Hycross (ZX-7S) model, has been sanctioned with around Rs 33 lakh, totaling nearly Rs 1.32 crore.
This expenditure has come under scrutiny, particularly during a period when Maharashtra has declared 265 talukas drought-affected, accounting for nearly three-quarters of the state. The affected regions are grappling with deficient rainfall and prolonged dry spells, exacerbating the financial difficulties faced by farmers. The Lokayukta body, composed of high-ranking officials including former Justice Sunil Shukre and former IAS officer Om Prakash Gupta, will utilize these vehicles.
The vehicle purchase has sparked discussions about government spending restraint, with some state ministers advocating for reduced expenditures on non-essential items. Despite these concerns, the government has proceeded with the approval of funds, following a revised review of vehicle requirements for the Lokayukta office on September 4.
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