New Delhi: Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi has written to PM Modi conveying support for Union Cabinet decision to reduce salaries for MPs by 30%.
The letter states, “Austerity measures which can be used to divert much needed funds to the fight against Covid-19 are the need of the hour”.
Gandhi suggested a complete ban on media advertisements by the Government and Public Sector Undertakings. “The only exceptions should be advisories for COVID-19,” she said, adding that this could free at least Rs 1250 crore spent by the Centre per year.
‘Central Vista’ beautification
The UPA chairperson also asked the government to suspend the ‘Central Vista’ beautification and construction project. Last September, the Union government announced the Central Vista redevelopment project and earmarked Rs 20,000 crore for the same. “At a time like this, such an outlay seems self-indulgent to say the least,” Gandhi wrote, adding that Parliament can function comfortably within the existing historical buildings.
Transfer of money from ‘PM CARES’ fund
Sonia Gandhi also called for the transfer of money from ‘PM CARES’ fund to the ‘Prime Ministers National Relief Fund’ (‘PM-NRF’). “This will ensure efficiency, transparency, accountability and audit in the manner in which these funds are allocated and spent. It seems like a waste of effort and resources to have and create two separate silos for the distribution of funds,” she wrote, assuring the prime minister of Congress’ ‘unwavering support’ to fight the virus.
This letter was in response to PM Modi who had sought opposition leaders suggestions during a call that he made to them on Sunday.
