Lieutenant Governor Kiran Bedi on Saturday said her office “is always there to help them (government) promote good governance and efficient administration.”
In a message shared with media on her meeting with Ministers and legislators at the Raj Nivas on Friday night, Ms. Bedi said she and her secretary explained to the government delegation her stand on procurement of Pongal gifts.
Minister for Public Works A. Namassivayam, Social Welfare Minister M. Kandasamy, government whip R.K.R. Anantharaman and MLA R. Siva (DMK) met Ms. Bedi after she raised concerns about the way the gifts were procured from the open market for free distribution among the public.
She had expressed apprehension about distribution of gifts to all ration cardholders at a time when the Union Territory had been facing financial crunch.
“Appointed public officials in administration remain accountable even after they retire from service, for observance of rules, regulations and due procedures in the course of their duties. Be it administrative, financial or otherwise,” she had reportedly told the government delegation.
‘Follow procedures’
Ms. Bedi said whenever a requisition was sent for any purchase, it must be planned well ahead of time, had to be based on availability of funds, budgeted and follow rules for obtaining approval from competent authority.
“The administration is here for good and efficient administration for the entire population of Puducherry which prioritises the marginalised sections of society. I am happy to observe that this was appreciated by visitors. The visiting dignitaries were assured of all legitimate support from Lt. Governor’s office,” she said in the message.
Ms. Bedi said after the meeting, Mr. Anantharaman gave a written appreciation for taking time to explain to them. He appealed to leave behind the bitterness in the relationship witnessed over the last year and to look ahead with optimism. “We have to start working together with good spirit towards development of Puducherry,” was Mr. Anantharaman’s message to Ms. Bedi.
