Tytler visits Odisha, targets state Govt

"As Orissa is rocked by a series of scams, I want to ask Naveen Patnaik seven questions pertaining to various schemes and activities," Tytler, AICC`s Orissa in-charge, told reporters here.

Maintaining that there has been no dearth of central funds to Orissa to accelerate its development, Tytler said performance of the state government in utilising the money for different schemes had been dismal.

BJD`s 11-year-long rule had become synonymous with scams as the state witnessed mining scandal, irregularities in purchase of dal and coal scam, he said.

Posing questions to the chief minister, Tytler said Patnaik should answer whether money meant for old-age pension was not drawn by the dead, government employees and those residing outside the state.

Patnaik should also tell if it is incorrect that about Rs 154 crore under MGNREGA was paid through middlemen with commissions, he said.

Job cards had also been issued "illegally" to middlemen and the chief minister must explain the position, Tytler alleged.

Naveen Patnaik must state whether money under MGNREGA was not diverted for various works including renovation and redesigning office buildings of district collectors, installation of air conditioners, he said.

There are instances of payment made at two different places for same work which Patnaik should explain, he said adding use of machines in violation of MGNREGA norms had also come to notice and chief minister must tell if it is wrong.

Despite Patnaik`s claim about increase in employment generation, a large number of poor people had migrated outside during 2005-09 in search of jobs, Tytler said asking the chief minister to tell if it is incorrect.