VP allows winning bidder the right to collect fees
TEAM HERALD
MERCES: In a move that could spark off a controversy, the Chimbel Panchayat has allowed the winning bidder of the market Sopo/pay parking auction to collect fees from all illegal establishments in the village.
Speaking to Herald, Panchayat Secretary Rajendra Gawas stated that the auction was won by Mohammad Nazir of Indira Nagar, beating four other competitors in the fray, and informed that the panchayat has given the winning bidder the right to collect fees from illegal bars operating in the village.
When informed that Chimbel village, particularly Indira Nagar, plays hosts to a number of illegal bars and this decision could only backfire by encouraging more illegal bars in the village, Gawas replied in the negative.
“On the contrary, it will bring in more revenue to the panchayat which is currently facing shortage of funds,” said Gawas.
“The villagers should welcome this decision of the panchayat since for several years it has been losing much needed revenue from such illegal businesses,” he opined.
“The winning bidder will also have the right to collect fees from all illegal establishments that are currently operating in the village,” he informed and added that those who refuse to pay the fees will be forced to shut down their business.
Gawas further said the winning bidder will have to deposit the entire amount by March 9, failing which he will be disqualified and the bid will then be awarded to the second highest bidder.
