The DMK-majority Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) council, responsible for approving civic projects monthly through resolutions, did not convene in May, leaving numerous projects such as roads and storm water drains pending.
Meeting Requirements and Delays
According to local body rules, GCC must hold 12 council meetings annually, spaced 30 to 45 days apart. Mayor R Priya convenes and chairs the meetings, while the GCC commissioner ensures implementation of resolutions. Commissioner Dr G S Sameeran stated that the civic body could not meet due to administrative reasons. Ward committee and standing committee meetings, prerequisites for council meetings, were also not conducted.
“Both elected representatives and GCC officials were occupied with election and post-election work involving expenditures and reconciliation. As per the mayor’s instruction, we plan to hold the council meeting in the last week of June,” Sameeran said. Circulars have been sent to all committees to convene meetings and prepare an agenda.
Incidents at Ward Meetings
Ward committee meetings were held in some zones like Sholinganallur, but incidents of TVK members disrupting these meetings were reported. DMK councillors were absent, while the TVK MLA and cadres participated. An official from Sholinganallur zone noted that the meeting only involved introductions, and no resolutions were passed.
Deputy Mayor Mahesh Kumar expressed readiness to hold council meetings but said not all zonal officials were prepared. “We will hold it in June,” he affirmed.
