SHGs, NGOs warned against working for parties during Goa polls

Ahead of the Assembly elections in Goa next month, the state administration today warned of strict action against self help groups (SHGs) and NGOs, which could be used as "conduits" by political parties or candidates for distribution of money and material in cash or kind.
In a statement issued today, the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) said that during the impending assembly elections in Goa, there is a possibility that SHGs or NGOs could be made conduits.
"There is a possibility that the SHGs/NGOs could be made conduits by political parties/candidates for distribution of money/materials in cash or kind, thereby indulging in large scale malpractices, which is a punishable offence under IPC and Representation of People's Act," a release stated here.

"It is strictly urged upon all the members of SHGs under the DRDA, North and South Goa, not to get influenced in acts of receiving any illegal gratification through any mode prior to the enforcement of the model code of conduct till the completion to the entire election process to have a free and fair election," it said.
"In case of any violations of the above instructions by any of the SHGs, action deemed fit will be initiated under the relevant provisions of Representation of People Act, 1951 and Indian Penal Code respectively against the erring SHGs."
"In addition to this, all the benefits to the SHGs under National Rural Livelihoods Mission Scheme will also be suspended for a further period to be decided by the appropriate authorities," it adds.

Elections for the 40 assembly constituencies in Goa are scheduled to be held on February 4.