In response to the TMC’s allegation of corruption in the town administration added with the demand for a social
audit, the GJM-led Mirik Municipal authority today welcomed the move.
Municipality chairperson Mala Subba, including vice-chairman MK Zimba
and former vice-president Moti Sharma told the media they welcome the
demand with open arms. They have especially notified this to Mirik block
TMC secretary Anil Chettri and INTTUC leader Brihaspati Subba.
But while welcoming the social audit,
the municipality representatives demanded the TMC should first conduct a
social audit of the massive corruption that took place during the GNLF
tenure. Chairperson Subba claimed that during the two years of its
tenure, the GJM-supported municipal administration has accomplished many
development works to the benefit of the people. She asserted if the TMC
is seeking a by-election in ward no. 2, it is not possible as the
administration is under the GJM. The by-elections can be held only if
GJM chief Bimal Gurung decides to hold one, she added.
Firing back at TMC leader, MK Zimba said
before conducting a social audit and physical inspection of the
municipal administration’s works, a social audit must be conducted on
TMC leader Anil Chettri. Zimba alleged, “During the GNLF’s reign no ward
under Mirik municipality witnessed development. Further, Anil Chettri,
who was the Panchayat Pradhan then, bought six vehicles with the money
meant for public welfare.”
Moti Sharma also said corruption was
rampant during his vice-chairmanship under the GNLF’s rule. The former
vice-chairman added he resigned from the post unhappy with such
fraudulent practices. He said the people are happy now with the
development activities the GJM-backed administration has undertaken
during the past two years.(EOIC)