Manipur Congress slams government over non-release of funds despite fiscal year-end

Senior Congress leader Keisham Meghachandra on Wednesday, April 1 criticised the Government of Manipur for failing to release budgeted funds for 2025–26 even after the close of the financial year, alleging that the lapse would adversely impact development and welfare programmes in the state.

Addressing a press conference at his official residence, Meghachandra said the State’s economic condition remains “pathetic” amid the prevailing law and order situation. He noted that a substantial portion of funds earmarked for development projects and welfare schemes had not been disbursed as of March 31, the last day of the financial year.

“Except for a small portion, most of the allocated funds have not been released. This will have a significant impact on the State,” he said, questioning the government’s inability to ensure timely fund disbursal.

The Congress leader warned that the non-release of funds would stall ongoing and planned development projects. He added that reclaiming lapsed funds would require additional administrative processes, resulting in delays and avoidable expenditure of time and resources.

Meghachandra also flagged concerns regarding the conclusion of the 15th Finance Commission term, stating that Manipur stands to lose a significant portion of allocated funds. According to him, out of ₹1,043 crore earmarked under the Commission for Autonomous District Councils, urban local bodies, and panchayats, over ₹600 crore remains unutilised and pending.

“For a financially constrained State like Manipur, a loss of over Rs 600 crore is substantial. With the Commission’s term ending, these funds may no longer be claimable, resulting in a major setback for the State,” he said.

Condemning what he described as administrative lapses, the Congress leader alleged a lack of accountability within the government. He further claimed that the failure to release funds on time reflects a broader governance deficit and indifference towards development priorities in the State.