Indore Clerk's Pay Withheld Over 20-Month File Delay

A review of the Indore Development Authority (IDA) on Sunday revealed a significant lapse in file disposal, with a case in the Estate Branch pending for nearly 20 months. The Divisional Commissioner and IDA Chairman, Bhaskar Laxkar, took a stern view of the delay and directed that the salary of the concerned clerk, Akash Silawat, be withheld.

The action was taken during a comprehensive review meeting chaired by Laxkar to assess the functioning of the authority's 17 branches and the progress of its ongoing development projects. IDA Chief Executive Officer Parikshit Jhadey presented the updated status of various works and departmental activities.

The prolonged pendency of the file emerged during the Estate Branch review, and sources said the Commissioner expressed strong displeasure over the delay. The decision to withhold the employee's salary marked one of the significant actions taken during the review.

The review also brought shortcomings in the functioning of other branches to the notice of senior officials. Laxkar instructed the concerned officers and employees to immediately address the deficiencies and streamline the working system. He emphasized that files and public-related matters should not remain pending unnecessarily and that officials must maintain proper monitoring of work.

The Commissioner also reviewed the progress of major infrastructure projects being executed by the IDA, including the River Over Bridge on MR-12, Railway Over Bridge on MR-10, and the multi-storey building under Scheme No. 136. Construction agencies were directed to ensure that work meets prescribed quality standards and is completed within the stipulated timeframe.

Laxkar stressed that merely taking up projects was not enough and that realistic planning, continuous monitoring, and timely completion must remain the focus. During the meeting, the Commissioner also reviewed developed master-plan roads and internal roads being constructed under various town development schemes. Quality of construction and adherence to deadlines were discussed in detail.

The 20-month delay in the Estate Branch file has triggered action from the administration, highlighting the focus on accountability and timely disposal of files. The IDA has been instructed to ensure that such delays do not occur in the future and that officials are held accountable for their work.

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of efficient governance and the need for officials to be held accountable for their actions. The IDA's efforts to streamline its working system and ensure timely completion of projects are crucial for the development of the city.

In conclusion, the withholding of the clerk's salary due to the 20-month file delay is a significant step towards ensuring accountability and efficient governance in the IDA. The administration's focus on timely disposal of files and completion of projects is essential for the development of the city and the well-being of its citizens.