Kolkata, May 24: Smita Pandey, the Commissioner of the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), made significant remarks on the ongoing demolition drive against illegal constructions. This statement came following the demolition of two houses belonging to Raju Naskar in the Beleghata area. The Commissioner emphasized that the actions taken were in strict adherence to legal procedures.
Pandey stated, “There are numerous illegal constructions here. It’s not just one; several illegal structures exist next to each other. We have followed our complete procedure. Notices were issued, and ample opportunity for hearings was provided. There were no obstacles in the action taken.”
She clarified that the notices issued are entirely personal and have no connection to any political party. The Commissioner added, “Police forces were present to assist us on-site. We have not received any complaints against the police action.”
Furthermore, Smita Pandey mentioned, “Today, actions are still ongoing at six locations. We will take necessary legal steps in this matter. There are many illegal constructions in Kolkata for which we are preparing a database. Notices have already been issued in some areas, while several cases are pending in court. We must also comply with court orders. Where there are no obstructions, we will certainly take action.”
According to KMC officials, complaints regarding illegal constructions in the Beleghata area have been received for a long time. The action was initiated based on these complaints. The Commissioner also hinted at strict actions against other illegal constructions in the coming days.
This demolition drive has sparked a heated debate between the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The TMC has labeled it as political vendetta, while the BJP welcomed KMC’s decision.
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