Nashik Corporators Unite in Demand for Financial Transparency White Paper
In a rare show of unity, corporators from all political parties in Nashik came together on Wednesday to demand that the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) release a comprehensive white paper. This document would detail the civic body's financial status, revenue generation, and expenditure on development works during the nearly four-year period of administrator rule from March 2022 to January 2026.
General Body Meeting Seeks Clarity on Administrator Era Finances
The demand was formally raised during the NMC's General Body meeting held on Wednesday. Responding to the cross-party pressure, Mayor Himgauri Aher announced, "I have instructed the civic administration to submit a white paper on the financial condition of the civic body. This will include detailed accounts of funds spent on development works and revenue generated over the last four years of administrator rule." The mayor further directed officials to prepare an elaborate presentation on Kumbh Mela-related projects for the next GB meeting.
Shiv Sena Leader Highlights Need for Public Trust Restoration
Ajay Boraste, group leader of the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in the municipal corporation, revealed that he had submitted a formal letter to the municipal commissioner last month urging publication of such a white paper. "Since the elected body's term ended, all major municipal powers, including those of the GB and the standing committee, were exercised by the commissioner as administrator," Boraste explained. He emphasized that residents and elected representatives have repeatedly raised questions about financial decisions, development expenditure, Kumbh Mela preparations, and pending projects during this period.
Boraste elaborated on the specific information sought: "They have sought clarity on income, spending, liabilities, establishment costs, ward-level development funds and future financial planning. A transparent white paper will help rebuild public trust, dispel doubts and ensure smoother coordination between the newly elected body and the administration."
BJP and Other Corporators Join the Call for Accountability
BJP corporator Dinkar Patil strongly supported the demand, stating, "We want the civic administration to present complete financial details of the last four years of administrative rule." Several other corporators including Gurumit Bagga, Sudhakar Badgujar, and Shailesh Dhage also reiterated the call for a detailed white paper covering the civic body's financial condition and all transactions conducted during the administrator rule period.
The unified demand reflects growing concerns about financial transparency and accountability following the extended period of administrator governance. With the newly elected body now in place, corporators are seeking a clear financial roadmap to guide future development decisions and restore public confidence in municipal governance.
