Selective Fund Allocation Raises Concerns in Mumbai: BMC Accused of Political Bias

Mumbai, 31st January 2024: An investigation by ‘The Indian Express’ has uncovered a concerning pattern of selective fund allocation by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Mumbai, based on their political affiliations. Official records obtained through the Right to Information Act reveal that the BMC disbursed Rs 500.58 crore to 21 MLAs of the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance, while all 15 Opposition MLAs received no funds despite submitting requests.

The issue stems from a February 2023 policy that allowed MLAs to seek funds from BMC for civic works, with each MLA entitled to a maximum of Rs 35 crore. These funds were intended for a range of development projects, including drain repairs, park beautification, and infrastructure improvements.

The investigation spans the period between February 2023 and December 2023, revealing that BMC Commissioner and Administrator I S Chahal selectively disbursed funds only to MLAs affiliated with the ruling alliance, leaving Opposition MLAs without any allocation. Guardian Ministers, tasked with approving proposals for fund requests, were observed to clear requests from ruling alliance MLAs promptly, while Opposition MLAs faced delays.

The BMC’s resolution on February 16, 2023, allocated Rs 1,260 crore (2.5% of the BMC budget) for civic works in the constituencies of 36 MLAs, with each MLA eligible to seek up to Rs 35 crore. However, the investigation has highlighted an uneven distribution of these funds, prompting concerns about fairness and transparency.

Opposition MLAs expressed frustration at the lack of funds, despite submitting proposals for essential civic works in their constituencies. Instances were highlighted where requests from Opposition MLAs remained pending with Guardian Ministers, while those from ruling alliance MLAs received swift approvals.

Guardian Minister Lodha, responsible for disbursing funds, claimed that there were no pending letters from Opposition MLAs and insisted on fair disbursement. However, Opposition MLAs argued that the delay in fund allocation was adversely affecting critical civic projects in their constituencies.

The investigation underscores serious concerns regarding the potential misuse of power and public funds, raising questions about the fairness and impartiality of the allocation process within BMC.