Surat AAP Corporator Hospitalized Following Hunger Strike Over School Construction Dispute
In a dramatic turn of events, Dr. Kishor Rupareliya, a municipal corporator from ward number 7 in Surat and a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was admitted to the civic-run SMIMER hospital on Friday evening after his health deteriorated during a hunger strike. The protest, which began on February 1 on Ramkatha Road in Katargam, was aimed at demanding that the construction of the proposed Suman School be relocated to ward number 7 instead of ward number 8.
Health Concerns and Vow to Continue Protest
Doctors confirmed on Saturday that Rupareliya's condition is now stable, but the incident has highlighted the intensity of the ongoing row. In a video uploaded online on Saturday, Rupareliya made a firm declaration: "Once I feel better and am discharged from hospital, I will continue my fast at the same spot." This statement underscores his unwavering commitment to the cause, despite the health setback.
Allegations of Procedural Bypass and Vested Interests
Rupareliya has accused certain individuals of manipulating the process for their own gain. He asserted that the proposed construction of Suman School was initially approved by the Standing Committee of the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC). However, he claims that due to the vested interests of some people, the construction was shifted to ward 8, bypassing all necessary SMC procedures. This alleged deviation from standard protocols has fueled public outrage and political tension in the area.
Opposition Demands Action and Accountability
Adding to the controversy, Payal Sakariya, the leader of the Opposition within the SMC and an AAP member, took decisive action on Saturday. She wrote a letter to the SMC Commissioner, demanding stringent measures if the contractor fails to commence construction at the originally proposed site. Her demands include:
- Blacklisting the contractor firm if they do not start work at the designated location.
- Initiating a departmental inquiry against the executive engineer and the zonal chief of the Katargam Zone for their roles in the matter.
This move by Sakariya amplifies the pressure on municipal authorities to address the grievances and ensure transparency in the project's execution.
Background and Broader Implications
The dispute over the Suman School construction site is not just a local issue but reflects broader concerns about governance and community representation in urban development. The hunger strike by Rupareliya has drawn attention to how municipal decisions can impact ward-level infrastructure and public services. As the situation unfolds, residents and political observers are closely monitoring the SMC's response to these demands for accountability and procedural integrity.
With Rupareliya's pledge to resume his protest upon recovery, the row is far from over. It remains to be seen how the municipal corporation will navigate this challenge while balancing development goals with public sentiment and legal protocols.
