Probe begins into inflated pricing and substandard distribution of pressure cooker

Kamble stated, “I filed a criminal complaint with both the BMC commissioner and the police commissioner regarding this scam occurring under the supervision of the L Ward’s Assistant Commissioner. Despite this, no action has been taken, indicating a blatant disregard for the issue. The failure of officials to address this misuse of public funds is causing significant losses to the public exchequer and violates Article 14 of the Constitution, as only select party workers seem to benefit from the scheme.”

The cookers were subsequently handed over to Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande from Chandivali, who distributed them in his locality, despite the BMC’s procurement of the cookers, Kamble alleged.

Mandeep Singh Makkar, a social activist from L Ward, commented, “This is a clear case of financial mismanagement and corruption. The BMC must explain why they paid nearly double the market price for these cookers and why they opted for low-standard brands instead of reputable ones.”

Residents who received these cookers have expressed dissatisfaction with their quality. “The cooker I received felt flimsy and unreliable, with a loose lid allowing steam to escape. I had to get it repaired before using it, as it initially did not ensure safety,” said Kausalya Shinde, a beneficiary.

Assistant Inspector Hindurao Chaudhari of the Saki Naka police has summoned BMC L Ward Assistant Municipal Commissioner Dhanaji Hirlekar as part of the investigation. However, Hirlekar has requested additional time, citing his responsibilities with the Har Ghar tiranga campaign ahead of Independence Day. “We are committed to investigating the scam, but without statements from BMC officials, our progress has been hindered,” said Chaudhari.