The Leader Impact : Massive Protest at PCMC Gate Over Sambhaji Maharaj Statue Tender
- Opposition Leaders Demanded The Immediate Cancellation of Entire Tender
Pimpri : Corporaters in Pimpri-Chinchwad have demanded the immediate cancellation of a contractor associated with the extended works of the Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj statue in Moshi, alleging large-scale corruption in the project.
Protesting against the allegedly inflated and irregular tender process, corporaters staged a strong demonstration outside the municipal headquarter. They warned that if the contract is not cancelled, they will escalate the agitation and take to the streets.
The protest saw participation from corporaters Bhausaheb Bhoir, Nana Kate, Sandeep Waghere, Sulabha Ubale, and Vishwajeet Barne, among others. Raising serious concerns over the lack of transparency in the project, they questioned the alleged favoritism in awarding the contract, asking whether the contractor was being unduly favoured by the civic body.
Bhausaheb Bhoir stated that while there must be sensitivity towards historical figures, corruption in the tender process cannot be tolerated. He questioned the justification behind inflated costs, remarking that beautification work should not involve exorbitant pricing.
Sulabha Ubale referred to earlier works, claiming that nearly Rs. 20 crore was wasted due to relocation of the statue after its installation. She also questioned how the same contractor was awarded work again under revised and allegedly inflated rates.
Nana Kate alleged that the tender for the memorial project was deliberately inflated despite opposition and warned of intensified protests if it is not scrapped.
Sandeep Waghere also condemned the alleged corruption, stating that it is unacceptable for irregularities to occur in a project dedicated to a revered historical figure. He further questioned the allocation of increased funds when there are reportedly financial constraints within the administration.
The corporaters have collectively demanded a thorough inquiry into the entire tender process and immediate cancellation of the contract. They have warned that failure to act will lead to a more aggressive protest in the coming days.
