Pune: The unauthorized rehabilitation of 30 street vendors at Parihar Chowk in Aundh, which is designated as a no-hawkers zone, has raised serious concerns within the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). A previous inquiry report has now been expanded with additional allegations, prompting authorities to seek a departmental investigation. A proposal for appointing an investigation officer has already been sent to the Municipal Commissioner, as confirmed by Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P.

Violation of No-Hawkers Zone Rules

• The Shivdutt Mini Market at Parihar Chowk was officially marked as a no-hawkers zone, yet 30 street vendors were illegally rehabilitated there.

• Despite the biometric survey of street vendors being halted, licenses were still issued to them.

• A complaint regarding this irregularity led Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale to assign Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P. to conduct an investigation.

Findings of the Investigation

• The then-Deputy Commissioner was found to have exceeded his jurisdiction while issuing licenses.

• Some vendors were granted licenses without providing proof of 15 years of residence in Maharashtra, a mandatory requirement.

• Based on these findings, Commissioner Bhosale ordered disciplinary action and instructed a departmental inquiry into the matter.

Delay in Investigation and Further Actions

• Despite one month passing since the orders, no officer has been appointed to lead the investigation.

• Other officials from the Encroachment Department allegedly involved in the issue have not yet been investigated.

Additional Commissioner Prithviraj B.P. confirmed that: "A proposal to appoint officials for the internal inquiry committee has been sent to the Commissioner. Additional allegations will be included against the Deputy Commissioner. A decision will be made on whether to withdraw the Deputy Commissioner's responsibilities in other departments."