Shillong, Mar 7: Ardent Miller Basaiawmoit, the Voice of the People Party (VPP) legislator from Nongkrem constituency, expressed concerns about Meghalaya’s financial management during the budget discussion on Friday.

While not opposing government spending or borrowing, Basaiawmoit highlighted the state’s heavy dependence on central funds and loans, which may lead to financial difficulties in the future.

He pointed out that the state’s liabilities have increased significantly, with a 136.87 percent rise in open market loans and a 1619 percent increase in loans from the government of India between 2018-19 and 2024-25.

Basaiawmoit also emphasized the massive repayment amounts, including Rs. 12,209.50 crores in open market loans and Rs. 2,786.10 crores in interest payments.

The VPP legislator criticized the government’s failure to prevent resource drainage, citing instances of illegal coal transportation in North Garo Hills district.

He also questioned the government’s priorities, mentioning that two advisors were enjoying a cricket match in Dubai while the state faced pressing issues.

Basaiawmoit further expressed concerns about the state’s debt trap, referencing a warning from the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

He emphasized the need for fiscal responsibility and questioned the government’s reliance on consultants, suggesting that this undermined the roles of engineers, IAS, and MCS officers.