BMC Sealing Drive Sparks Row Over Selective Action

A sealing drive conducted by the Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, has sparked controversy over selective enforcement. The drive, which aimed to crack down on commercial establishments operating from residential premises, was limited to Rohit Nagar and Bawadiya Kalan, with no action taken in Arera Colony.

The BMC teams had issued a 24-hour ultimatum to commercial establishments in Rohit Nagar, following which many traders voluntarily shut down their shops. However, only two establishments were sealed during the three-hour operation, while several others were given more time to comply.

The absence of sealing action in Arera Colony has drawn criticism, as several commercial establishments continue to operate from buildings approved for residential use. According to BMC records, hundreds of notices have been issued across Arera Colony, but enforcement has not begun there.

One such establishment is a cafe linked to sports minister Vishvas Sarang's brother, which operates from a building approved for residential use. The sanctioned plan for the property mentions a residential building with no commercial built-up area, yet no action was taken against it.

Complainant Vivek Tripathi has alleged that the sealing drive was merely a symbolic exercise, claiming that most traders were asked to shut shops voluntarily while only a few establishments were sealed. He questioned why action was not taken against properties linked to influential people and alleged discrepancies in the number of notices issued by the corporation.

Deputy municipal commissioner Bhuvan Gupta has denied allegations of selective action, stating that the corporation had prepared panchnamas in both Rohit Nagar and Arera Colony during the drive. He added that the sealing operation will continue across Bhopal and action will be taken against all establishments found operating illegally from residential premises in compliance with the Supreme Court's directions.

The controversy has raised questions over the corporation's preparedness and its commitment to enforcing the law uniformly. The issue is pending before the Supreme Court, and Tripathi has vowed to raise the matter of uniform action against all illegal commercial activities during the upcoming hearing.

The BMC's sealing drive is part of a larger effort to crack down on illegal commercial activities in residential areas. The drive has been sparked by concerns over safety and the need to protect residential areas from commercial encroachment.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the BMC will take action against all establishments operating illegally from residential premises, or if the drive will remain limited to select areas. The outcome of the Supreme Court hearing will be closely watched, as it will have significant implications for the city's commercial and residential landscape.

In conclusion, the BMC's sealing drive has sparked a row over selective action, with many questioning the corporation's commitment to enforcing the law uniformly. As the issue continues to unfold, it is essential to ensure that the law is applied equally to all, regardless of influence or connections.