Mumbai: Social activist Mr. Sanket Nalawade has sought a high-level and time-bound inquiry into issues relating to the administration of digital hoardings within Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority, the implementation of government transfer orders, and matters connected with an ongoing departmental inquiry involving senior administrative officials.
According to the representation submitted to the state government, concerns have been raised regarding the transfer of responsibilities relating to digital hoardings from the engineering department to another administrative authority within MHADA. The representation has sought clarity regarding the administrative basis, applicable rules and decision-making process behind such a transfer of powers.
The memorandum further refers to publicly reported information regarding an ongoing departmental inquiry against senior officer Vandana Suryawanshi in connection with an alleged revenue loss of ₹49.31 crore. The representation emphasises that the allegations are currently under inquiry and calls for the investigation to be completed within a defined time frame, with the findings made public in the interest of transparency and accountability.
Questions have also been raised regarding the issuance of notices to several digital hoarding vendors in Mumbai and the process adopted in relation to hearings and administrative actions concerning such cases. The representation seeks an independent review of the legality and procedural aspects of these actions.
Further, the memorandum has sought examination of whether all applicable deputation rules and government guidelines were adhered to during the appointment and continuation of officers on deputation in MHADA.
The representation also refers to reports regarding a government order dated 17 June 2026 relating to the conclusion of the deputation tenure of the concerned officer and her reporting back to the parent department. It requests the government to verify compliance with the order and ensure its effective implementation wherever required.
Mr. Nalawade has urged the state government to constitute an independent high-level inquiry or special committee to examine all administrative decisions, file approvals, notices and records connected with the matter and to initiate appropriate action wherever any irregularities are found in accordance with law.
Speaking on the issue, Mr. Nalawade stated that the matter extends beyond any individual officer and concerns broader principles of administrative transparency, accountability and public confidence in governance. He called for a fair, impartial and time-bound inquiry so that the facts can be established and placed before the public.
