Amid heated discussions, the Shrishthal Gram Sabha on Sunday resolved to demand an investigation into the controversial tendering of certain projects by panchayat during the last five years.
The discussions broke out shortly after minutes of the last Gram Sabha were read and the expenditure was approved at the Gram Sabha that was chaired by Sarpanch Sejal Gaonkar.
Members began raising various questions on industries that have shut down in the industrial estate, forest rights claims, house numbers, sub-health centre, and other issues pertaining to garbage projects, auditorium rent, illegal construction on communidade land.
Locals also demanded a proper investigation into the death of a youth under mysterious circumstances in Bhatpal.
Pavan Tupki alleged malpractice and illegality in the tendering process and since there was no adequate response to a previous demand made by him, he demanded an inquiry into this process through the Vigilance Department.
Accusation and counter accusations marred the proceedings of the Gram Sabha.
At one point, Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar, who was present at the meeting, suggested meetings with parties concerned to resolve the issues. He suggested a development plan, keeping aside politics and appealed to people to work in an organised manner in development work, assuring his full cooperation.
Several residents participated in the discussion and finally, a resolution was passed demanding an inquiry by the vigilance department into the tender process and also an inquiry into all works done by the Panchayat during the last five years.
Members also objected to the appointment of the Village Development Committee (VDC), claiming that no meeting of VDC was held for last five years. They claimed that since people’s participation is not required, the members refused to elect a new committee.
