RTI activists seek stringent action against mushrooming of illegal structures

Mysore/Mysuru:  Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Mysuru risk facing severe revenue losses in the coming years if illegal constructions are not curbed immediately, warn RTI activists.

Activists K.V. Bhanuprashanth, Bhanu Mohan and Snehamayi Krishna have jointly written to the Commissioners of the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) and the Mysuru Development Authority (MDA) urging strict action against illegal buildings within their jurisdictions.

The activists allege that both MCC and MDA officials have repeatedly delayed sharing information regarding illegal constructions in various zones, the number of building licences issued and the tally of legal versus illegal buildings.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, Bhanuprashanth claimed that despite being fully aware of widespread violations, tax evasion  and unauthorised buildings, officials have failed to act.

“Whenever illegal activities are reported, officials issue notices merely as a formality, which are then ignored without follow-up,” he alleged.

He further accused the civic authorities of neglecting their duty to boost Local Body revenues, forcing the city to remain dependent on State and Central Government funds for developmental works.

The activists also blamed officials of the MCC, MUDA and the Police for turning a blind eye to violations and indirectly encouraging illegal activities  through inaction.

“Following our complaints to the Lokayukta and the State Information Commission, orders have now been issued to MCC Zonal Offices 1-9 to provide complete details about illegal constructions and building licenses issued,” said  Snehamayi Krishna.

No information on illegal PGs

In addition, the RTI activists have alleged that MCC, MUDA and Police officials failed to provide any information about illegal Paying Guest (PG) accommodations and the total number of PGs operating in Mysuru, claiming they have no records.

They also cited complaints from senior citizens residing in Saraswathipuram who have raised concerns about the behaviour of some girls staying in PGs.

“Young women who come to Mysuru for work and education are reportedly behaving indecently until midnight, creating discomfort for residents. Yet, officials claim ignorance about the rise of illegal PGs in the  area,” they said.

The activists did not limit their complaint to illegal buildings and PGs alone. They also highlighted the absence of playgrounds in many schools across the city and criticised Education Department officials for failing to take any action against such institutions, despite repeated concerns  being raised.