Contractor converts parking lot into shops, Corpn turns blind eye

The issue came to light when AIADMK cadres who were aggrieved that they were left out of small tenders, revealed that the contractor Anandaraj belonged to DMK and alleged that the contractor gets help from a person close to KC Veeramani.

The Corporation had released tenders for running a two-wheeler parking lot at the Jutka stand near Makhan fish market on the old Bengaluru road three years ago. Anandaraj successfully bid for the contract and later converted the parking lot space into five shops which he sublet to others.

Enquiries revealed that he was able to withstand official scrutiny due to the assistance rendered by an AIADMK area secretary Kuppusamy, known to Veeramani. Party cadres also alleged that an AIADMK functionary was collecting rent from the shops in the Nethaji market area for nearly two years while it should be undertaken by the local body’s subordinate staff.

Unable to witness this violation, a few cadres brought it to the notice of Veeramani, who upheld them from indulging in such violation, which affected earnings for the Corporation.

When asked, officials claimed ignorance and said that as the three year contract would end on March 31, the shops would be demolished and the area would be converted again to a parking lot. However, the officials concerned being not worried about the issue for nearly two years has puzzled many.