Guwahati, 17th July: South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai has called on his fellow legislators in Meghalaya to fully utilize their annual discretionary grants for the benefit of their constituents. The BJP representative emphasized that the Rs 10 lakh allocated to each of the state’s 60 MLAs should be directed towards helping people rather than being retained by the lawmakers.
Shullai highlighted that the guidelines for the grant clearly outline its purpose: to provide financial assistance to people within their constituencies. He traced the grant’s evolution, noting its increase from Rs 3 lakh in 2008 to the current Rs 10 lakh per year for each legislator.
The MLA suggested potentially doubling the grant to Rs 20 lakh, with a proposal currently awaiting approval from Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma. Shullai expressed optimism that the chief minister would approve the increase within the month.
He underscored the grant’s importance in enabling MLAs to offer timely financial aid to those in need. Legislators must submit utilization certificates with bills to access the funds and can use them beyond their constituencies if necessary.
Shullai also mentioned that any MLA who does not wish to use the grant can inform the Legislative Assembly in writing.
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