Mukul Sangma Advocates for Real-Time Auditing of Government Schemes

Shillong, India Aug 25, 2026 ALN: The Opposition leader Mukul Sangma has stressed on the need for real-time auditing of government schemes to facilitate course correction during implementation, rather than focusing solely on penal actions. This call for real-time auditing underscores a growing recognition of the importance of accountability and transparency in governance, particularly in the context of programs designed to uplift communities and address socio-economic challenges.

Mukul raised this concern while posing a supplementary question in the Assembly on Tuesday. He expressed his discontent regarding the current implementation of the Community Participation and Social Audit Act, enacted in 2017, and called for a review to realign its approach. The Act was designed to enhance community involvement in the auditing process, thereby ensuring that local voices are heard and that the benefits of government schemes reach the intended beneficiaries.

“I am disturbed by the way it is being implemented,” Mukul stated, highlighting the necessity for a more effective auditing process. His remarks reflect a broader concern among various stakeholders regarding the effectiveness of social audits in promoting transparency and accountability. The emphasis on real-time auditing suggests a shift towards a more proactive approach to governance, where issues can be identified and addressed promptly, rather than waiting for the completion of audits to react to problems.

The state government reported conducting over 69,000 social audits last year, bringing the total to over 4.19 lakh audits in the past eight years. Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma informed the Assembly that 7,724 issues were reported in the last three years, with 724 resolved and action taken reports made public. These figures indicate a substantial commitment to auditing and accountability, but they also raise questions about the effectiveness of the current system in resolving issues and ensuring that government schemes achieve their intended outcomes.

Conrad emphasized that the state has gone beyond the Centre’s mandate by enacting the Community Participation and Social Audit Act. “What started with MGNREGS under MSAT (Society for Social Audit and Transparency) now covers 13 more schemes, including food and civil supplies, education, POSHAN, fisheries’ Blue Revolution, power, and health,” he explained. This expansion of the Act's scope reflects an acknowledgment of the diverse needs of the community and the importance of involving citizens in the governance process.

He added that reports are sent to concerned departments for action against implementing agencies, with 1,491 reports uploaded online. “We budget close to Rs 5 crore every year from the state’s own funds for this. It is a well-balanced process with beneficiaries involved,” the Chief Minister noted. This financial commitment signifies the government's recognition of the importance of social audits in enhancing transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

Mukul Sangma, who was in office when the Act was passed, remarked that the legislation was nationally recognized as a model for real-time transparency through community participation, but emphasized that course correction is essential. “The idea was real-time auditing for course correction during implementation, not just penal action,” he reiterated. His comments highlight an essential aspect of governance: the need for mechanisms that not only identify problems but also facilitate timely responses to rectify issues as they arise.

“Yes, it was a meaningful step taken during my time as CM and the first of its kind in the country. I will review it personally to ensure the desired outcome,” the Chief Minister responded. This commitment to review the implementation of the Act indicates a willingness to adapt and improve governance practices, acknowledging that the landscape of public service delivery is dynamic and requires continuous evaluation and adjustment.

Earlier, C&RD Minister Sosthenes Sohtun mentioned that 17 schemes are currently being audited, and four cases of financial irregularities were detected. However, he noted that details would require a separate notice, prompting VPP MLA Ardent Basaiawmoit to allege that the minister came unprepared. This exchange underscores the challenges that often accompany the implementation of auditing processes, including the need for adequate preparation and the potential for political disputes to overshadow substantive discussions about governance and accountability.

The discussion surrounding the Community Participation and Social Audit Act is indicative of a larger trend in governance where the emphasis is placed on participatory approaches that engage citizens in the oversight of public programs. This shift is particularly relevant in a country like India, where the diverse needs of the population necessitate tailored approaches to governance that take into account local contexts and conditions.

Moreover, the call for real-time auditing reflects a growing recognition of the limitations of traditional auditing practices, which often focus on retrospective assessments rather than proactive engagement. Real-time auditing could potentially empower communities to take ownership of the processes that affect their lives, fostering a sense of agency and responsibility among citizens.

In conclusion, Mukul Sangma's advocacy for real-time auditing highlights critical issues in the implementation of government schemes and the need for continuous improvement in governance practices. As the state navigates the complexities of social audits and community participation, the emphasis on course correction and proactive engagement may pave the way for more effective and accountable governance that truly serves the interests of the people.