BBMP dismisses officials for encouraging encroachers in the city
Synopsis
Civic Commissioner N. Manjunath Prasad to file criminal cases against BBMP officials held responsible for encouraging encroachers A list of defaulters has been submitted to the Additional Chief Secretary of Urban Development Department who will take strict action against them
Civic Commissioner N. Manjunath Prasad on Monday said that criminal cases will be filed against BBMP officials held responsible for encouraging encroachers.
During a council meeting at the BBMP central office yesterday, he stated that a list of defaulters has already been submitted to the Additional Chief Secretary of Urban Development Department who will take strict action against them.
Mayor BN Manjunatha Reddy further urged people to verify original maps before purchasing lands. Currently, BBMP is conducting a survey in Thanisandra, Geddalahalli and other places where tanks and stormwater drains are being encroached.
The scandal came to light when it was revealed that some BBMP officials were changing official city maps (which designate certain areas where construction cannot take place) to accommodate the demands of VIPs and politically influential people.
In response to these allegations, chief minister Siddaramaiah said “I don’t deny that some officers are responsible for these encroachments and demolitions, and I have also formed a committee and ordered a comprehensive investigation in the matter. Suitable action will be taken strictly on these officers who have helped the encroachers.”
According to a report in The Hindu, on Monday, the encroachment clearance drive continued at multiple locations which even saw residents getting into heated arguments with the BBMP officials at Kasavanahalli. The police were later called to intervene.
Officials also demolished the compound walls of at least four properties, including a hostel for nursing students in Ramachandrapura, Vidyaranyapura. The BBMP is expected to continue the demolition drive on Tuesday and Wednesday.