'It is not possible to let local MPs open new roads'

But the state government has assured that the MPs will be invited in the

inauguration programmes and they will be felicitated along with all other public representatives to be present in the programmes.

In a recent letter, the Centre had urged the state government to let local MPs inaugurate the newly constructed roads or to lay foundation of such projects. In a reply, the state government has raised the point that it would not look proper if the Chief Minister of the state or the minister of the concerned department does not inaugurate the projects.

It may be mentioned that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has inaugurated the project of laying of 18,000 km rural roads across the state from a programme at Bhangar in South 24 Parganas. At the same time, the people's representatives had inaugurated the projects in their respective areas.

The Centre had also sent another letter to the state Panchayat and Rural Development department urging to return Rs 181 crore that was given for 100 days work under MGNREGA. The reason that the Centre has shown demanding the money back was that the same amount money was given for digging of ponds. The Centre claimed that ponds are private properties and why government should give money for digging up ponds.

In reply, the state government has clearly stated that though ponds are private properties, it is being used by each and every people residing in the area. Moreover, digging of ponds was essential as it helps in inundation of water during heavy rainfall. So there is no point giving the money back.