Mendhar Development Row: Former DDC Seeks Probe into Alleged Hand Pump Relocation

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

ALTAF HUSSAIN 

MENDHAR MARCH 03:-Er. Wajid Bashir Khan (Tickoo), former District Development Council (DDC) Member from Mendhar-B and BJP State Executive Member, has raised serious concerns over the alleged relocation of hand pumps approved through Gram Sabha resolutions, seeking a thorough inquiry into the matter.

In a detailed statement issued to the media, Er. Khan alleged that several hand pumps, which were formally approved during duly convened Gram Sabha meetings, have been shifted from their sanctioned locations without consent or documented administrative approval. He claimed the original sites were selected after consultation with former Sarpanchs, Panchs, and other elected representatives, strictly based on public need and officially recorded in the proceedings.

According to him, the decisions taken during the Gram Sabha meetings were lawful and binding, and any alteration without proper authorization violates established procedures. He alleged that the relocations were carried out under political influence and claimed that Cabinet Minister Javed Ahmed Rana had a direct or indirect role in the process.
Er. Khan further stated that there are allegations that certain hand pumps have been moved from public utility sites to locations allegedly benefiting individuals close to the minister. If proven true, he said, such actions would amount to misuse of authority and a breach of democratic norms.

Emphasizing procedural integrity, he said that development works approved through legally conducted Gram Sabha meetings and entered into official records cannot be altered without due administrative process, written authorization, and transparent justification. Any deviation from this framework, he added, is administratively improper and legally questionable.

He has urged the district administration to initiate a fair, independent, and time-bound inquiry. He called upon the Deputy Commissioner and concerned departmental authorities to examine official records to determine the originally approved locations, the current installation sites, under whose authority changes were made, and whether written permissions exist for such alterations.

Er. Khan demanded strict action against those found responsible if unauthorized shifting is established, stressing that accountability must be fixed and officials involved must clarify the legal basis for altering Gram Sabha-approved decisions.
Reiterating his commitment to public accountability, Er. Wajid Bashir Khan said he stands with the people and will continue to raise his voice against any action that undermines grassroots democracy or misuses public resources. He warned that if timely administrative action is not taken, the matter may be escalated to higher authorities and appropriate legal forums.

He concluded by asserting that development initiatives must be guided by law, transparency, and public welfare, rather than political influence, and that the authority and dignity of the Gram Sabha must be upheld.