The Bombay High Court has strongly criticized the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) over its failure to act against rising encroachments across the city, remarking that officials who are not performing their duties should “go home.” The court expressed serious concern over the growing number of encroachments, stating that despite the situation worsening, the anti-encroachment squad has failed to take effective action.
During the hearing of a public interest litigation, the Nagpur bench of the High Court questioned the functioning and utility of the anti-encroachment department. The court directed the civic body to submit detailed information regarding the number of officers and staff working in the squad, the monthly expenditure incurred on them, and the total cost spent over the past year. It also sought data on the number of actions taken and fines collected during this period.
The court further observed that enforcement appears to be selective, with action being taken only against small vendors while large-scale encroachments on main roads continue unchecked. It noted that even major roads remain occupied, raising concerns over fairness and efficiency in enforcement. The civic body has been asked to present the required details by May 6, following which further directions will be issued.
The observations came during a hearing before Justices Anil Kilor and Rajesh Badole, who emphasized accountability and transparency in the functioning of the anti-encroachment squad.
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