BJP MLA raises concern over SUDA | - Times of India

Source: The Times of India

Surat: Expressing anger over the way the Surat Urban Development Authority (SUDA) functions, Surat East BJP MLA Arvind Rana has demanded that SUDA chairman Shalini Agarwal remains present in the next district coordination meeting with an undertaking mentioning the approvals given to various properties in the limits of SUDA. Rana made a written representation to this effect in the meeting held on Saturday under chairmanship of district collector Sourabh Pardhi.

In the meeting, Rana shared the details that 82 premises, mostly schools, game zone and hotels, that have been sealed in the SUDA area during the drive undertaken after the TRP Game Zone fire in Rajkot. Now Rana wants an undertaking from SUDA officials that all other properties apart from the sealed ones have requisite building user certificate and fire NOC.

"SUDA chairman, who is the municipal commissioner, is ordered to remain present in the next meeting. If any deadly incident takes place, then the elected representative faces the consequences. 'Mal khay adhikari ane mar khay chutayela pratinidhi' (The officials take advantage, while elected representatives get beaten up). This way of functioning will not continue in Surat now," stated a letter by Rana. Rana told TOI, "When asked about the details of the sealed properties, SUDA provided information about the 82 premises. So, when these properties were being developed, what were SUDA officials doing? Furthermore, what about other properties in the SUDA area? Do they have all the requisite certifications?"

"The SUDA chairman will have to remain present. Now elected representatives will not face criticism or action for the failure of officials," added Rana. Claiming that he is going to raise the issues about Surat city as well, Rana said: "In the coordination meeting for the Surat city, I will question the municipal commissioner. The officials will have to give answers and assurance for the same issues."

Rana further raised concerns about permissions being given to other religions in areas where the Disturbed Areas Act is in force. He alleged that corrupt officials take decisions in favour of people from other religions.