'Over Rs. 700 crore is allocated under the Delhi MLALAD Scheme over a five-year period, yet the government has not taken any steps to pro-actively inform people about the existence and utilisation of these funds. As a result, these funds are often spent on non-priority works while basic development needs of people remain largely unaddressed,' Anjali Bhardwaj of SNS told IANS.

'Information accessed using the RTI Act shows that in many constituencies, funds have been allocated for constructing fountains while residents face acute water shortage,' she said.

'We had just requested the CIC to direct the government that project-wise information about MLALAD Scheme should be put up on the government's website and on boards in each constituency in compliance with the RTI act,' Bhardwaj added.

She said the CIC order will ensure that development funds are utilised in a 'consultative, participatory and accountable manner.'

'Having access to information on these funds will enable people to meaningfully engage with their legislators to ensure that funds are spent on their area's most pressing development needs,' Bhardwaj said.