News Desk, Kolkata : The Chief Secretary of the state, B.P. Gopalika, has vehemently denied the allegations made in the Kag report, stating that all utilization certificates related to the reported funds have been duly submitted to the central ministries. Speaking at a press conference, Gopalika clarified that the report, which refers to the financial year ending in 2021, is based on data dating back to 2002-03. This discrepancy, he emphasized, has led to a misunderstanding, as the report implies that no utilization certificates for the mentioned funds were issued in the year 2021.
During a media interaction, Gopalika highlighted that the staggering amount of 2.29 trillion rupees mentioned in the report is a misinterpretation, adding that it has created confusion. He explained that the figure includes data accumulated over approximately 20 years, giving the impression that such a colossal sum was reported for the fiscal year 2021 alone. The Chief Secretary firmly asserted, “The government does not comprehend the content of this Kag report.”
Furthermore, Gopalika disclosed that all utilization certificates were submitted to the relevant central ministries, and any funds released were done so after proper scrutiny. He emphasized, “We have followed due process, and the amount stated in the report is not reflective of the utilization certificates submitted.” The Chief Secretary urged for a careful review of the report, emphasizing the need to differentiate between cumulative figures and annual accounts.
In a series of meetings with journalists, Gopalika delved deeper into the intricacies of the report. He pointed out that the utilization certificates cover the financial years 2021-22 and 2022-23, dispelling any notion that funds were misappropriated or not properly accounted for during this period. “The claim of not issuing utilization certificates for the mentioned amount is a misunderstanding,” he stated unequivocally.
Responding to the assertion that the reported funds were not utilized in the specified year, Gopalika underscored the meticulous submission of utilization certificates to the central ministries. He argued that the confusion stems from the misrepresentation of data from as far back as 2002-03, creating a false narrative that the funds in question were not appropriately accounted for in the fiscal year 2021.
To address concerns regarding the substantial amount mentioned in the report, Gopalika clarified that the figure includes funds from multiple years, contributing to the misunderstanding. He assured the public that the government is committed to transparency and accountability in financial matters.
In an effort to reinforce his point, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of regular audits conducted by the state’s accountants general. He stated that had there been any outstanding utilization certificates, it would have been highlighted during these audits, prompting corrective action.
Gopalika’s clear and resolute statements sought to debunk the allegations raised in the Kag report, assuring the public that the government has diligently followed proper procedures. He reiterated that the report’s representation of funds and utilization certificates is misleading and urged for a comprehensive understanding of the data presented.
As the controversy unfolded, the Chief Secretary’s office released a statement reaffirming their commitment to accountability and inviting a thorough examination of the utilization certificates submitted to the central ministries. Gopalika’s unwavering stance, combined with the detailed explanations provided, aimed to restore confidence in the government’s financial practices amidst the ongoing scrutiny.
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