The Indian Express    21.08.2012

Illegal constructions: PCMC files 41 cases, police say no to maha morcha on August 23

Even as Municipal Commissioner Dr Shrikar Pardeshi reiterated that he would adopt a tactical move, his administration on Monday filed as many as 41 cases against citizens who had illegal structures in their name.

Meanwhile, Pimpri police denied permission to “maha morcha” which was supposed to be held on August 23 by various political parties and social groups to protest against PCMC’s anti-encroachment drive. Parties have, however, criticised the decision and are likely to go ahead with their plan by courting arrest.

Most of these cases were registered in Sangvi, Pimpri and Thergaon. PCMC official said, “Notices were issued to citizens and developers to stop and demolish illegal structures. But some did not pay heed to the warnings. Cases have been registered under Section 392 of the BPMC Act”.

Meanwhile, the PCMC chief said to ensure that peace in the town is not disturbed and the development work is not affected, his administration will continue to adopt a tactical approach towards demolitions. However, he did not specify the approach. Civic officials said PCMC will carry out the drive phase-wise to avoid sudden uprising from the people.

The PCMC has been forced to rethink on the drive after they faced stiff resistance in Dighi and Nigdi-Walhekarwadi area. In Dighi, residents resorted to stone-pelting on the demolition squad while in Walhekarwadi, a key road was blocked and several vehicles were damaged in stone pelting. In the second incident, at least 100 people, including four corporators, were arrested.