AIMIM Demands Inquiry into Alleged Illegal Post Creation in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Civic Body
The All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) has formally submitted a memorandum to the divisional commissioner and other key authorities in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, demanding an immediate inquiry into the creation of a nodal officer position within the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation's (CSMC) anti-encroachment department. The party alleges that this post was established without proper legal authorization, raising serious concerns about financial and administrative irregularities.
Legal Violations Cited by AIMIM
Abdul Sameer Sajid, the leader of opposition in the CSMC and an AIMIM functionary, emphasized that the establishment schedule of the civic body does not include any mention of such a nodal officer post. He stated, "According to the Maharashtra Municipal Corporations Act, 1949, and the Government Service Rules, prior approval of the state government is mandatory for the creation of any new post in a municipal corporation. The CSMC has taken no such approval, rendering this post illegal."
Sajid further argued that this unauthorized creation constitutes a clear instance of financial and administrative misconduct. He called for a departmental inquiry against the civic authorities responsible and urged for an audit to assess the financial burden imposed by this post. The memorandum, also submitted to the district collector and city commissioner of police, stresses the seriousness of the matter, demanding prompt action to uphold accountability and transparency.
Background of Tensions and Legal Battles
This demand comes amid ongoing tensions between AIMIM functionaries and civic authorities, particularly related to anti-encroachment drives. Since June last year, the municipal limits have seen crackdowns in various areas, with a recent drive in Shahganj escalating conflicts. On March 1 this year, civic officials lodged an offence against nine AIMIM corporators under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), accusing them of obstructing public servants, criminal intimidation, and defamation after they opposed actions in Shahganj.
The AIMIM has dismissed these charges as politically motivated and plans to challenge them in court. This legal dispute adds to the broader context of the party's current push for accountability in municipal governance.
Authorities' Response and Next Steps
When contacted by media for comments on the AIMIM demand, divisional commissioner Jitendra Papalkar did not respond immediately. Senior civic officials also declined to comment, leaving the issue unresolved. The AIMIM's memorandum insists that top authorities must ensure no violation of law occurs and that a transparent regime is maintained. As the situation unfolds, further developments are expected regarding the inquiry and potential legal proceedings.
