Lucknow: Mayor Sushma Kharkwal on Sunday administered the oath of office to Samajwadi Party corporator Lalit Tiwari, three days after a Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court froze her financial and administrative powers over a delay in complying with its order. With the powers frozen, the mayor could neither sanction expenditure from her fund nor take disciplinary action against employees.
The oath ceremony was held at the Lucknow Municipal Corporation office in Lalbagh in the presence of the municipal commissioner and other senior officials. Soon after the ceremony, the mayor's powers were restored, allowing her to resume her duties fully.
Background of the Case
The case pertains to the 2023 urban local body elections, in which Tiwari lost the Faizullaganj ward seat to Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Pradeep Kumar Shukla by 1,672 votes. Tiwari challenged Shukla's election in the High Court, alleging that Shukla had concealed his second marriage in the election affidavit. After the allegation was proven, the High Court set aside Shukla's election and ordered that Tiwari be declared the duly elected corporator.
Mayor's Explanation for Delay
Explaining the delay in complying with the court order, Mayor Kharkwal said she was hospitalised and was discharged only on Saturday evening. She expressed regret for the delay but maintained that the oath ceremony was conducted as soon as she recovered.
Corporator's Response
Calling the development a "victory of justice," Tiwari said he would work diligently to resolve the issues of his ward. He thanked the court and the mayor for ensuring that the legal process was followed.
This incident highlights the judiciary's role in ensuring compliance with its orders and the importance of timely administration in municipal governance.
