Opposition members in VMC general board allege corruption by standing committee chairman

The general board meeting of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation once again ended with allegations levelled against standing committee chairman for his alleged involvement in corruption.

The general board meeting of the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) once again ended with allegations levelled against standing committee chairman for his alleged involvement in corruption. Now, the opposition leader has asked the mayor to initiate an investigation into the matter.

As per information, the meeting started with allegations levelled by the opposition leader, Chirag Zaveri, who said that the pamphlet circulated in the VMC office shows the level of corruption, and that it is important for people to know where their money is being utilised.

A few days ago, a pamphlet was circulated with allegations on present standing committee chairman Dinesh Choksi, but without mentioning his name.

Story continues below this ad

The pamphlet alleged that Choksi made money in crores as kickbacks of a contract given to a Mumbai- based company.

The rate of advertisement per bus shelter is Rs 35,000 per month and there are 124 such shelters with 130 more expected to come up in the future.

When the total cost of the entire project stood at Rs 26.4 crore, the chairman gave it for just Rs 2.20 crore, said the pamphlet.

“The entire issue has created a bad public image and people are wondering where the money collected from taxes is being spent. Under these circumstances, it becomes the responsibility of the mayor to initiate a neutral investigation,” said Zaveri.

Story continues below this ad

Zaveri also said that the matter should be reported to the police and thorough investigation should be made. “When an allegation of such a nature is made, it becomes important to handover inquiry to the Gujarat vigilance commission and even the state police should be informed about this for further investigation,” he added.

It is important to mention that the selection of the standing committee chairman is slated for

December 19 and the circulation of these pamphlets is considered as a move to prevent Choksi from retaining his position as standing committee chairman.