Kerala Minister V Sivankutty Denounces Illegal Parking Fee Collection at Govt SMV School During Attukal Pongala
In a strong statement on Wednesday, General Education Minister V Sivankutty declared the unauthorized collection of parking fees inside the campus of Govt SMV School during the Attukal Pongala festival as illegal and unacceptable. He directed authorities to take strict action against those responsible for this practice, emphasizing that school premises must not be used for private parking activities.
Minister Clarifies PTA Has No Authority for Fee Collection
Sivankutty clarified that the parent-teacher association (PTA) of the school had no authority to collect parking fees from devotees attending the festival. He instructed the school management to initiate strong disciplinary measures against individuals involved in this unauthorized activity. Additionally, the minister addressed reports of illegal roadside stalls operating near the school during the event, ordering officials to investigate and take appropriate action.
City Corporation Announces Stringent Measures Against Illegal Parking
Meanwhile, the city corporation has announced it will launch stringent actions against illegal parking fee collection across the city. Mayor V V Rajesh revealed during a news conference that information indicated the PTA of Govt SMV School was involved in unlawful activities, including charging exorbitant parking fees from devotees for several years and renting out school premises to commercial establishments like roadside eateries.
The corporation has formally written to the general education department, seeking strict action against the school's PTA. Rajesh highlighted that police had already taken steps against the PTA for collecting unauthorized parking fees during the festival.
Complaints and Police Action Escalate the Issue
Complaints were also received regarding excessive parking charges at two locations in Enchakkal and at Gandhi Park, which falls under the corporation's jurisdiction. Rajesh noted that the parking contract at Gandhi Park had been cancelled in 2023, and action will be taken against the individual involved. He added that the corporation will review all parking-related contracts to prevent similar violations in the future.
In a related development, Thampanoor police arrested the PTA president of Govt SMV Higher Secondary School, along with an official, on Tuesday. They were allegedly collecting Rs 400 per car from devotees under the guise of a "PTA Development Fund". Police stated the collection was unauthorized and followed multiple complaints from devotees who felt pressured into paying the amount.
Minister Praises City Corporation for Festival Arrangements
Despite the controversy, Sivankutty praised the city corporation for its effective arrangements during the Pongala festival and the post-event cleaning efforts. He commended the civic body for efficiently handling staff deployment and sanitation work, ensuring the event proceeded smoothly for devotees.
This incident underscores ongoing issues with unauthorized commercial activities in educational institutions during major festivals, prompting calls for stricter oversight and accountability.
