Union holds protest against ‘rampant corruption’ in MC

The RTI Activists and Whistle-Blowers Union in collaboration with several NGOs staged a protest at the municipal corporation zone-D office, alleging widespread corruption, administrative negligence and misuse of power by corporation officials. The protesters claimed that corruption was deeply entrenched across various branches, including building, B&R, tehbazari, health and TS-1.

The activists further alleged that illegal constructions and unauthorised commercial conversions were rampant in planned residential areas such as Sarabha Nagar, BRS Nagar and Kitchlu Nagar, resulting in significant financial losses to the corporation. Concerns were also raised over sub-standard road works, particularly those laid during the Ludhiana West byelection in May, which had already deteriorated, leading to frequent accidents.

Another serious issue highlighted was the presence of unsafe sewerage manholes with below road-level covers described as ‘death traps’. Encroachments on public lands and green belts, poor sanitation and the alleged collapse of Smart City projects were also cited as signs of administrative breakdown.

The dharna aimed to awaken the corporation from its “long slumber” and demand accountability in governance. Prominent social leaders, including Sat Pal Sharma, Anita Sharma, and Gurnam Singh, participated in the protest, urging citizens to unite against corruption and demand their constitutional right to good governance.