Srinagar, July 11 (KNB): The Office of the Financial Advisor and Chief Accounts Officer (FA/CAO), Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), on Saturday rejected allegations of financial irregularities published in a section of the local media, describing the claims as factually incorrect and attributing them to resistance against reforms introduced to strengthen financial governance within the Corporation.
In a statement, the FA/CAO’s office said the allegations regarding unauthorised routing of files and delays in payment processing were baseless and failed to acknowledge the procedural reforms implemented by the Finance Wing. It said all financial transactions are processed strictly in accordance with government rules, with approvals recorded electronically and subjected to multiple levels of scrutiny.
The office said the Finance Wing has strengthened compliance with the General Financial Rules (GFR) by introducing digital bill processing, electronic fund transfers, and enhanced internal financial control mechanisms to improve transparency, accountability and audit compliance.
It maintained that these reforms have reduced discretionary practices and reinforced oversight of public expenditure. The statement further said that objections to the new system appear to stem from individuals uncomfortable with the stricter enforcement of financial regulations, though no individual or organisation was named.
Welcoming the fact-finding inquiry initiated by the Government, the FA/CAO’s office expressed confidence that an independent examination of records would establish the factual position. It said all documents, electronic records and relevant material would be made available to the investigating authorities.
Reiterating its commitment to transparent financial administration, the office said all financial decisions are taken in accordance with statutory provisions, established administrative procedures and institutional audit mechanisms to safeguard public funds.
The statement also appealed to the media to report responsibly and avoid drawing conclusions before the completion of the official inquiry. It assured full cooperation with the investigating authorities and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity in the functioning of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation. (KNB)