Bhopal, July 18 (UNI) Dissatisfied with the replies to their queries over irregularities in the works being carried out under the Pradhanmantri Gramin Sadak Yojna (PMGSY) in Katni district, opposition Congress members today put Minister of State for Panchayat and Rural Development Gangaram Patel in the dock in the assembly.

As the matter was raised during the question hour, Mr Patel said some irregularities had been noticed but were rectified later and as such no action was taken against any official.

Speaker Ishwardas Rohani asked Mr Patel why responsibilities were not fixed against those who committed irregularities.

He said action must be initiated against concerned officials even if the irregularities were rectified.

However, the minister remained adamant that no action was needed against the officials.

Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Narendra Singh Tomar came to the defence of Mr Patel and said the irregularities were noticed while construction work was underway and were rectified before complettion.

However, dissatisfied Congress members demanded action against the officials.

During question hour, Mr Patel also fumbled upon while replying to a question related to transfer of panchayatkarmis. Once again Mr Tomar came to his rescue.

The Speaker also came to the defence of Mr Patel saying sometimes new ministers fumbled while replying to questions.

UNI PKJ-PS 1535