Surat : DDO BK Vasava Faces Allegations of Negligence and Inaction

Surat : BK Vasava, the District Development Officer (DDO) of Surat, finds himself at the center of controversy as allegations of deliberate complacency and inactivity in fulfilling his duties have surfaced.

The accusations stem from his alleged failure to address various pressing issues and neglecting complaints raised by vigilant citizens. Darshan Naik, the General Secretary of Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), has written a  letter to Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel demanding stringent departmental actions against BK Vasava, holding him accountable for his alleged negligent behavior.

One of the main issues raised against DDO BK Vasava is his purported inaction concerning Class-I and Class-II officers of the Surat District Panchayat. Despite a circular issued by the development commissioner of Gujarat state on January 4, 2020, which prohibits these officers from enjoying air-conditioned offices and cars, evidence indicates that some officers have continued to do so.

Several complaints were submitted to BK Vasava, providing evidence of the officers’ non-compliance with the circular, but no departmental action has been initiated so far. According to the circular, the DDO is required to take action within 15 days, a deadline that has seemingly been disregarded.

Another grave concern lies in the 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 serious matter has raised questions about BK Vasava’s responsiveness and accountability as a public servant.

As per the norms established when Panchayat Raj was implemented in the state, District Development Officers were entrusted with the responsibility of supervising and controlling the taluka and village level panchayats within their districts. They were empowered by the government to monitor and regulate the functioning of these offices and take appropriate actions if necessary. The allegations against BK Vasava suggest a lack of effective oversight and action in fulfilling this crucial role.

Another issue raised against BK Vasava pertains to the installation of solar LED street lights in Zinora village of Mangrol taluka, sanctioned under the 15th Finance Commission grant. Despite the approval, the tender process was not initiated, and instead, a company was directly hired for the installation. Shockingly, the company only installed 30 solar LED lights on existing poles owned by the DGVCL, contrary to the approved 44 lights.

Darshan Naik expressed frustration with the lack of response from BK Vasava, stating, “We have submitted about nine complaints to Surat DDO BK Vasava in the last couple of months. He seems disinterested in taking any action, thereby displaying negligence towards his important position.” Naik further urged Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to initiate an inquiry into the alleged corrupt practices of DDO BK Vasava and to ensure justice for the people of Surat district.