THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 21: Senior BJP leader and Leader of the Opposition Babulal Marandi has written to Chief Minister Hemant Soren, raising concerns over the alleged underutilisation of newly purchased bulletproof vehicles in Jharkhand.
In his letter, Marandi questioned the rationale behind procuring high-cost security vehicles if they are not being effectively used, warning that such practices could lead to wastage of public funds.
Concerns Over Idle Bulletproof Fortuner Vehicles
Marandi stated that the state Home Department had purchased 17 bulletproof Toyota Fortuner vehicles in late 2024 for use by the Chief Minister, former Chief Ministers, the Governor, and for VIP security movement.
According to him, three of these vehicles are assigned to the Chief Minister, two to Raj Bhavan, while the remaining 12 are stationed with the HQRT (Headquarters Quick Response Team).
However, he alleged that only a few of these vehicles are currently in use, with the majority reportedly lying idle.
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Warning Against Waste of Public Money
The BJP leader highlighted that vehicles left unused for extended periods tend to deteriorate and eventually become unfit for use.
He argued that purchasing such expensive assets without ensuring their proper utilisation amounts to a waste of public money.
Old Vehicles Still in Use by Former Chief Ministers
Marandi also pointed out that bulletproof vehicles currently allotted to former Chief Ministers are 10–12 years old and have already covered nearly 2 lakh kilometres.
He claimed that these vehicles frequently break down during travel, including the one allotted to him, causing inconvenience and raising safety concerns.
Suggestion to Reallocate New Vehicles
In his letter, Marandi urged the Chief Minister to ensure better utilisation of the new vehicles. He suggested that unused bulletproof Fortuner vehicles be allocated to senior officials such as the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), Home Secretary, and Cabinet Secretary.
This, he said, would prevent deterioration of the vehicles and ensure optimal use of government resources.
Political Heat Over Resource Management
The issue is likely to trigger a political debate in Jharkhand, with questions being raised over governance, resource allocation, and accountability in the use of public funds.
