ANGUL: In the wake of alleged corruption and irregularities in construction of shops under Talcher Municipality limits, the State Government has ordered to initiate action against the municipal Executive Officer (EO) for violating guidelines.
The Commissioner-cum-Secretary, H&UD Department has asked the authorities concerned to stop construction and suggested that allotment of shops be made as per law.
Sources said councillor Prakash Maharana had filed complaints before the Secretary, H&UD about corruption in construction work by Executive Officer AB Parida.
Later, Maharana moved HC over the issue. On the direction of HC, the Secretary heard both Maharana and Parida last month and ordered action.
Speaking to mediapersons at Talcher on Wednesday, district BJP general secretary Jajati Pattnaik and five BJP councillors of Talcher Municipality accused the Chairman and EO of massive corruption in construction of 58 shops at Hatatota.
The councillors alleged that “Though there are guidelines to obtain Government permission if the expense exceeds `50 lakh, municipal authorities did not follow the rules and obtain financial approval from the council,” they said. They demanded suspension of Parida and resignation of the municipal Chairman immediately.