Even as the Lokayukta has sought Housing Minister Prakash Mehta’s response to the allegations of wrongdoings in the controversial M P Mill compound proposal, he is unlikely to seek a reply from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Mr. Fadnavis had ordered a Lokayukta probe in the case following news reports that the minister had cleared a Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) proposal which allowed the transfer of extra building rights granted to slum dwellers at M P Mill compound to a scheme for project-affected people. Mr. Mehta had allegedly noted on a file that the change had been “informed to the CM”.
In the monsoon session of the Legislature, the Opposition had sought an explanation on this from Mr. Fadnavis, with former chief minister Prithviraj Chavan pointing a finger at the CMO as well. The Opposition had said a probe by the Lokayukta would not be sufficient, since the Lokayukta has no power to investigate the CM, and had demanded judicial probe.
Following a directive from the Governor, the Lokayukta has prepared a preliminary report and sought a written reply from Mr. Mehta by December 7 on whether he used his office to benefit the developer. “All public servants, except the CM, come under the jurisdiction of Lokayukta. We have sought [Mr. Mehta’s] reply and once we get that the detailed proceedings will begin,” said an officer, on the condition of anonymity.
When asked if the CM’s reply will also be sought, the officer said it was unlikely. “It all depends on what reply we get from the minister,” said the officer.
