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The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is facing serious allegations of financial irregularities after Anna Dadu Bansode, the Deputy Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, ordered action against officials and contractors linked to questionable civic works, including “unnecessary” drainage lines, disputed garden works, and the disappearance of 43 dustbins.

The matter came up during a high-level meeting chaired by the Deputy Speaker on April 21, after repeated complaints and follow-ups by social activist Bharat Jadhav.

Garden works carried out by NMMC. Pic/Special Arrangement

Shoddy work

During the meeting on April 21, inquiry officer Sunil Pawar confirmed that drainage lines were constructed in Seawoods Sector 50 despite there being no actual requirement for the work. The inquiry also flagged discrepancies in garden development works in Sector 48. Another issue that drew attention was the alleged disappearance of 43 dustbins purchased under civic expenditure, with officials allegedly failing to provide proper records or explanations.

Files withheld

Sources said the engineering department had allegedly withheld certain files linked to the questioned projects during the inquiry process, further intensifying suspicions surrounding the civic works. The controversy has now triggered fresh questions over transparency, accountability, and monitoring of civic contracts in NMMC.

Works carried out by NMMC. Pic/Special Arrangement

Action within 7 days

The deputy speaker has directed the civic administration to take action within seven days, including blacklisting contractors and recovering public money allegedly lost in the works. What has raised eyebrows further is that an inquiry report was already submitted in October 2025, but no major action was initiated for months.

Official speak

Dr Kailas Shinde, NMMC commissioner said, “Show-cause notices have already been issued, and explanations have been sought from the officials concerned. Action will be taken based on the findings and replies received.”

Activist speak

Bharat Jadhav, social activist said, “I have continuously pursued this matter with the administration and submitted all documents related to the irregularities. But instead of taking strict action against officials involved in wrongdoing, some of them were given promotions. A detailed inquiry should also be conducted into the functioning of the commissioner’s administration during this period.”