A registered cultural society from South Andaman has initiated legal action over non-payment of ₹48,000, pending for nearly four years despite completion and approval of assigned work.
The society, Mukta Dhara, was entrusted with two programmes in July 2022 under Ujjwala Diwas through a valid work order. According to official records, the work was completed, documents were submitted, and payment was approved. However, the amount has not been released to date.
Records indicate that the file moved across departments, including the Electricity Department in December 2023, where it was reportedly returned citing procedural issues under GFR Rule 155. The District Commissioner’s office later marked the case as “complete,” yet no final payment was made.
The society pursued multiple grievance mechanisms, including two complaints on CPGRAMS and a ministry-level representation. All were reportedly closed without resolution.
Citing prolonged delay and administrative inaction, the society issued a legal notice on 06 April 2026. The claim now includes ₹48,000 as the original amount, along with interest, compensation, and legal expenses, totaling ₹1.28 lakh.
Members of the society allege repeated follow-ups, multiple office visits, and administrative neglect during the process.
The matter has now entered the legal domain and raises broader questions regarding accountability within administrative systems, particularly in cases where work has reportedly been verified and approved but payments remain pending.
Originally published in Dweep Tulika, Volume IX, Issue No. 1.
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