Shaktigarh Municipality Row: SDM Sitarganj Under Scrutiny Over Pre-Dated Inquiry Committee

Udham Singh Nagar (Uttarakhand), Dec 06

A procedural irregularity in Shaktigarh has brought the actions of the SDM Sitarganj under administrative scrutiny. Official records indicate that an inquiry committee was constituted on November 4, nearly a month before any related grievance was officially received on December 4.

The discrepancy in dates has triggered debates about procedural adherence and administrative transparency.

Municipal representatives and officials' familiar with the matter have questioned the sequence of actions, suggesting that the committee’s formation much before the complaint was received may not align with principles of due process. They have called for a review to determine whether all procedural requirements were properly observed.

The matter has since been escalated to district authorities, with stakeholders seeking clarity on the procedural basis of the inquiry. Reports suggest that the committee’s formation lacked preliminary consultation with the Nagar Panchayat leadership, while subsequent complaints were lodged without adequate documentary substantiation.

Shaktigarh Nagar Panchayat Chairman Sumit Mondal, meanwhile, has alleged political motive behind the controversy. Mondal claims that certain political groups have attempted to undermine his position through unfounded allegations. He further alleges that Animal Husbandry Minister Saurabh Bahuguna and his associates targeted him after he declined to join a particular political party. According to Mondal, his opposition to the minister regarding the unresolved settlement issues of several Bengali families has created administrative row, disrupting routine municipal functioning.

District administration sources state that the matter is under investigation. Observers note that the incident underscores the importance of transparency, procedural propriety, and accountability in local governance to retain public trust.