Praveen Malik seeks to amplify voice of societies in Manesar MC

Amid the ongoing political battle between Congress and BJP, local Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) are openly discussing their expectations and concerns at public meetings. The United Association of New Gurugram, an umbrella body representing over 50 RWAs in Manesar, has fielded Praveen Malik, who serves as a president of an RWA, as an Independent candidate for the post of councillor in Ward 4.

Malik has outlined his vision in a comprehensive document. He promises to ensure societies receive the recognition they deserve within the Municipal Corporation and advocates for the creation of a dedicated grievance cell and a separate development fund for their needs.

In his open house meeting with residents from various societies, Malik expressed his belief societies would have a stronger voice in the corporation under his leadership. “For the last four years, societies have only been acknowledged for paying property tax. Our infrastructure needs fall between the cracks and we lose out to villages with better political representation. The RWAs have always been clear about their demands, but they’ve been ignored. We plan to be our own voice in the Municipal Corporation,” said Malik.

Malik has also promised to establish a special development fund for societies. He argues societies not only maintain their own infrastructure but also manage roads outside their areas and, in many cases, handle sewage treatment plants (STPs) and rainwater harvesting systems.

“Societies are paying property tax, but despite our pressing needs, we receive no civic support. Most of us in Manesar are dealing with issues such as maintaining green belts, repairing roads and handling stray cattle. After discussing these concerns over the past 15 days, we have concluded when we are performing the civic duties of the corporation, we deserve financial support as well. We will work on securing a special development fund for societies,” Malik added.

It is important to note Manesar is home to over 80 fully functional societies, many of which frequently complain about being treated unfairly by civic agencies when compared to nearby villages.