Lokayukta to probe land grab allegations

The Lokayukta on Tuesday held a hearing of the Aarey land grab allegation by Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam against Sena leader Ravindra Waikar.

According to Mr Nirupam, the Lokayukta observed that as the minister was unable to attend the hearing due to the death of his younger brother recently, he would be given an opportunity to give his say on October 18-19, after which an investigation would be initiated against him.

Mr Nirupam had lodged a complaint with the Lokayukta against the alleged land grabbing by Mr Waikar in Aarey Colony where a state-run gymnasium had been constructed. Mr Nirupam had also complained that after becoming the housing minister, Mr Waikar had used his position to pressurise the authorities from taking action against the construction and hence he had no option but to approach the Lokayukta. “After representations to various authorities, including Mr Waikar, to demolish the illegal structure were not heeded, I lodged the complaint with the Lokayukta. Retired judge (M.L. Tahilramani) had assured that an inquiry would be held against Mr Waikar and a hearing was scheduled for today. However, due to the death of Mr Waikar’s younger brother recently, he was unable to come for the hearing, and hence it has been adjourned for October 18 or 19,” said Mr Nirupam, adding that the Lokayukta also assured that an investigation would be initiated after Mr Waikar had his say.

In his complaint, Mr Nirupam had demanded action against the minister for ‘misusing his office’ and ‘for exerting his post in usurping the land’. Mr Nirupam said he has also demanded action against officers of the housing department for ‘conniving in the land grabbing’.

When contacted, sources close to Mr Waikar said that in light of the death of his younger brother, Mr Waikar had informed the Lokayukta about his inability to attend the hearing and would present himself on the next date.