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."
