Pathanamthitta: Three “thozhilurappu mates” [National Rural Employment Generation Scheme (NREGS) worksite supervisors] in Pathanamthitta district were suspended for one year for attending a political event organised by the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) while they were supposed to be supervising the “thozhilurappu” work.
The incident occurred on January 20 when approximately 70 workers, along with the three supervisors, were reported to have left their worksites to join a human chain programme organised by DYFI. The supervisors’ absence was discovered during an inspection conducted by officials.
An investigation ensued, revealing that the list of supervisors selected for training had been allegedly influenced by the ward member of the panchayat, which is under the governance of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)].
In response to complaints filed by concerned individuals, the ombudsman directed the Pallickal Grama Panchayat Secretary to provide training to complainants, provided they meet the necessary qualifications. Additionally, the ombudsman ordered a reduction in the wages of the three supervisors and 70 workers for the day they were absent from work.
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