Politicians and their fancy demands are not new to the country's civilians. This time around, Nashik's Mayor Ashok Murtadak is in news for demanding a new Toyota Innova VX seven-seater for himself rather than using the present offered vehicle which is a Toyota Corolla Altis that was bought only about six months ago by the civic administration at a cost of about Rs. 19 Lakhs. The vehicle was previously used by former mayor Yatin Wagh.
As of now, the proposal is in waiting for approval from Municipal Commissioner Sonali Ponkshe. Murtadak was elected as Mayor on 12th September, post termination of former Mayor Wagh, who served for about two and half years. Hours after Murtadak was elected had his official vehicle seized based on election code of conduct. The vehicle was reportedly returned on 20th October when the code of conduct was over.
Speaking more on the occasion, an official from NMC said to sources, “The mayor has demanded a new vehicle and he has written a letter to us in this connection. We will soon submit the proposal to the municipal commissioner, who will decide on the matter. We had recently bought a new vehicle, a Toyota Corolla, for former city mayor Yatin Wagh. It will be given to deputy mayor Gurumit Bagga, if the proposal is approved.”
Adding to it, Ajay Boraste, Shiv Sena city chief, said to source, “The central and the state governments are adopting an economic policy to bring expenses under control. No recruitments are being done in government departments and officials have been asked not to fly by air unless it is really urgent. The revenue of the civic body through local body tax has been badly affected and the corporation is facing a financial crunch. Works of corporators amounting to Rs 2 lakh have not been approved. At this juncture, if the mayor demands a change in his vehicle, it will send a wrong message to all. The officials will also not adopt the economical policy if the mayor behaves in this manner."
Source: TOI
