Chandigarh Mayor Launches Inquiry into Liquor Vend Financial Irregularities
Chandigarh Mayor Saurabh Joshi has ordered an immediate and time-bound inquiry into serious financial irregularities concerning the allotment of a liquor vend located near Kalagram in Chandigarh. This probe comes in response to complaints highlighting significant lapses that have led to substantial financial losses for the public exchequer.
Details of the Irregularities
The Mayor expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that the lease agreement for the liquor vend was not executed in a timely manner due to apparent failures at multiple administrative levels. This delay has resulted in an avoidable loss to the Municipal Corporation, estimated to be between Rs 70 and 80 lakh. Furthermore, the existing licensee continues to occupy the vend, obstructing the lawful handover to the successful allottee for the 2026–27 period.
Official records from the Excise Department reveal that rent along with GST for several months remains unpaid, despite repeated notices and recovery directions. This indicates a clear breakdown in coordination and timely action between departments, exacerbating the financial damage.
Mayor's Directives and Accountability Measures
Mayor Saurabh Joshi has directed the Joint Commissioner to submit a comprehensive Action Taken Report (ATR) within three days. He emphasized that accountability will be fixed without fear or favour, with strict disciplinary action to follow against those found guilty. The inquiry will focus on:
- The delay in lease execution and identification of responsible officials.
- Examination of the legal and possession status of the vend.
- Accurate quantification of the total financial loss incurred.
Additionally, the Mayor has called for robust systemic reforms to prevent such lapses in the future. In a strong statement, he declared, “Public money is sacred. Not a single rupee will be allowed to be lost due to negligence, delay or administrative failure. Those responsible will be held accountable.”
Broader Implications
This case has been termed by the Mayor as a “grave administrative failure demanding urgent accountability.” The prolonged inaction has not only disrupted governance but also raised serious questions about enforcement and administrative intent within the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation. The inquiry aims to restore public trust and ensure that similar incidents do not recur, safeguarding municipal funds and promoting transparency in administrative processes.
