After the Arpora fire, which killed 25 people at the Birch nightclub in Romeo Lane, the government has temporarily started acting against illegal establishments. But experience shows that our officials take action only when people die and there is strong public outcry. Only then are officials suspended. When citizens raise issues earlier, they are labelled as extortionists or unpatriotic. It is time for the Pramod Sawant-led government to act seriously and fix accountability. All establishments and building projects, along with their trade licences and NOCs, should be listed on government websites. Directors of departments, magistrates, and High Court judges must act strictly on such lapses.
Simply postponing hearings and later giving clean chits to violators, even after many complaints, shows how deep the corruption runs. Ordinary people are forced to spend money and run from pillar to post, and even after getting favourable court orders, there is no action from government departments. Is this the “Ramrajya” promised by those in power? I hope the government rethinks its approach and punishes the offenders. A compensation of Rs 5 lakh is not enough for the families. Department officials responsible for lapses should be made to pay from their suspended salaries.
