Gujarat CM Orders Inquiry Against DDO BK Vasava for Alleged Complacency and Inactivity

Surat :Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has ordered an inquiry against District Development Officer (DDO) BK Vasava for alleged deliberate complacency and inactivity in fulfilling his duties. The move comes in response to mounting accusations of neglect and failure to address pressing issues raised by vigilant citizens.

The controversy surrounding BK Vasava surfaced when Darshan Naik, the General Secretary of Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), penned a letter to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on July 18, 2023. The letter demanded stringent departmental actions against BK Vasava, holding him accountable for his alleged negligent behavior.

One of the primary issues raised against DDO BK Vasava is his purported inaction concerning Class-I and Class-II officers of the Surat District Panchayat. A circular issued by the development commissioner of Gujarat state on January 4, 2020, explicitly prohibits these officers from enjoying air-conditioned offices and cars. Shockingly, evidence indicates that despite the circular, some officers have continued to flout the rules with impunity.

Numerous complaints were submitted to BK Vasava, presenting evidence of the officers’ non-compliance with the circular, but so far, no departmental action has been initiated. According to the circular, the DDO is mandated to take action within 15 days, a deadline that appears to have been completely disregarded.

Another serious concern that has raised questions about BK Vasava’s responsiveness and accountability revolves around the tragic suicide case of Sarpanch Vijaybhai Rathod from Rampura village in Bardoli taluka. It was discovered that government funds from his grant were allegedly used without permission for road construction. The police department, seeking a report on the matter from the Surat District Development Officer, has yet to receive any response. The delayed action on such a sensitive matter has added to the frustration and dissatisfaction of the affected parties.

Furthermore, BK Vasava is also under scrutiny for his handling of the installation of solar LED street lights in Zinora village of Mangrol taluka. The project was sanctioned under the 15th Finance Commission grant, but the tender process was inexplicably not initiated. Instead, a company was directly hired for the installation. Even more alarming, the company only installed 30 solar LED lights on existing poles owned by the DGVCL, which is in stark contrast to the approved 44 lights.

The multiple allegations against BK Vasava have sparked public outrage, with citizens expressing disappointment and demanding accountability from their elected officials. The Chief Minister’s decision to order an inquiry indicates the seriousness with which the government is approaching these accusations and highlights its commitment to maintaining transparency and accountability in the administration.

As the investigation unfolds, all eyes are now on the state authorities to conduct a fair and impartial inquiry into the allegations against DDO BK Vasava. The outcome of the inquiry will likely have far-reaching consequences for the administration and the perception of governance in Gujarat.