DMF funds not being used for welfare of mining-affected: Cong

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The Opposition Congress today alleged that there were irregularities in the use of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds in Chhattisgarh, which were being diverted for unintended purposes.

Citing a report of the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), state Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said guidelines were violated and benefits did not reach mine-affected people, for whom the funds are meant.

As per the report, the DMF collection in Chhattisgarh is Rs 2,746 crore as of April 2018.

Baghel said the fund should be used for welfare of mining-affected people, but in many cases the money was used for infrastructure construction, ignoring needs in the areas of health and education.

Not even one per cent amount reached those who live in mining-affected areas, the Congress leader alleged.

Mining-affected people have no representation on DMFs, he said.

The BJP government also diverted DMF money for the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwalascheme eyeing the coming elections, he alleged.

DMF are trusts set up in the districts affected by mining, meant to be used for the welfare of local population. Mining firms contribute to these non-profit bodies.