MCD engineers’ panel says it will launch stir against STF
NEW DELHI: A body of MCD engineers said it will launch a ‘Gandhian’ protest against an action plan by the Special Task Force (STF), which suggests disciplinary action against executive engineers, including filing of an FIR, if unauthorised constructions are spotted in their areas.
In April, Delhi Development Authority (DDA) had constituted a 13-member STF headed by its vice chairman to identify encroachment on public land and curb illegal construction on the directions of Supreme Court. This resulted into a massive demolition drive against unauthorised construction in the city.
After a month, the STF had created a post of “grid” officers who it said would be held accountable for all unauthorised construction in their areas.
This “grid” comprises over 30 engineering-level officials from DDA and all civic bodies.
“The STF’S action plan said if any unauthorised construction is found in the jurisdiction of the respective grid officers, it will be presumed that this has been with the connivance of these officers and (in such a case) showcause notice, suspension or FIR under the Indian Penal Court’s prevention of corruption act 1988 can be filed,” said Rajesh Mishra, president of ‘Forum of MCD Engineers’. “These engineers have no power to issue a sealing and demolition order. It would be unjust to hold them accountable,” he said.
MCD engineers said they have given their representation before the DDA vice chairman and commissioners of the three MCDS.
DDA vice-chairman Udai Pratap Singh said, “The post of ‘grid’ officers have been created just to spot the points where unauthorised construction is happening and share details with staff for timely action. These officials can do the task effectively without having these powers in any case.”
To mark their protest against the decision, members of the Forum of MCD Engineers has decided to work for one extra hour everyday and hold public awareness camps on Saturdays to share information about provision of Delhi Master Plan 2021.