Removal of power minister does not arise: CM

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 9, 2021

Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has maintained there is no question of relieving the incumbent Power Minister James K Sangma from his portfolio since the investigation into the alleged scams in the MeECL is completely independent in nature.

Addressing media persons on Friday, Conrad Sangma told reporters that the independent inquiry committee headed by retired Judge of Allahabad High Court, Justice Ifaqat Ali Khan was constituted on June 30.

It also comprises retired IAS officer Manoj Kumar as administrative member and retired executive director, REC Sunil Kumar as technical member of the committee.

“The committee has been asked to have its first meeting on Monday next,” he said.

Justice Khan to head Ind inquiry into MeECL scams

On the demand to remove the power minister pending the investigation, the Chief Minister however said the matter will not arise as of now.

“This committee is completely independent in nature and MeECL is an autonomous body and therefore, from the government side there is absolutely no interference in the day-to day functioning. The MeECL functions as an autonomous body and therefore, there is no need or no question of removing the power minister from his portfolio at this point in time,” he said.

He said the committee has also been asked to submit its report within 3 months.

“…we are waiting for the report of this committee and then we will see how things move forward in the future,” he said.

Recently, the opposition Congress had demanded the immediate removal of James Sangma from the power portfolio citing that he may influence the investigation process.