The New Indian Express News

BJP steps up vigil anticipating LDF bid to move crucial files from Thiruvananthapuram corp

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Even as intense speculation continues over who will be the next mayor of the city corporation, the BJP, has turned its attention to the corporation headquarters, anticipating attempts by the LDF now out of power to move crucial files. Senior BJP leader and possible mayoral candidate V V Rajesh recently alleged that such an attempt was made on Saturday. BJP leaders claim they are maintaining constant vigil at the corporation office to prevent any last-minute decisions or file movements that could have long-term implications. During the election campaign, the BJP had levelled a series of corruption allegations against the LDF, particularly in connection with Smart City projects and waste management initiatives. Party sources said the BJP is now preparing to bring out more documentary evidence to substantiate these claims, while simultaneously projecting its development agenda for the state capital. A section of senior BJP leaders indicated that the prime minister, Union home minister and other national leaders are also expected to highlight the alleged corruption in the capital city in the coming days. While attention remains focused on the BJP state headquarters over the mayoral decision, the party leadership is reportedly ensuring that every move at the corporation office is closely monitored. Senior councillors are said to be personally keeping track of developments. A few days before polling, the BJP had released a set of documents alleging irregularities in garbage disposal projects, procurement of e-vehicles for waste transportation and other civic initiatives. The party maintains that these are only a part of what it claims to be widespread corruption under the LDF regime. If there is any attempt to move files again, we will intervene. The voters have given us an opportunity, and we will place more details of their (LDFs) corruption before the public, a senior BJP leader said. The BJP has already sought a central investigation into several issues, including the Sabarimala gold theft case, and is now likely to press for a comprehensive audit of the corporation. On December 6, the party wrote to the Ministries of Housing and Urban Affairs and Home Affairs, alleging large-scale corruption and financial irregularities in the corporation. BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar had told reporters that the LDF spent nearly Rs 20,000 crore over the past 10 years in the name of development in the capital, with little to show on the ground. With the BJP now in control of the corporation, sources said the party plans to intensify its demand for investigations, a move that is expected to pose fresh political challenges for the Left.