Ruling BJP faced with challenges on multiple fronts at the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation is faced with challenges on multiple fronts and questions on its administrative capabilities even as the
The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party in the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation is faced with challenges on multiple fronts and questions on its administrative capabilities even as the Opposition fronts have stepped up protests over a host of issues. The shortcomings have been noticed in waste management as well as in welfare measures. One of the biggest issues ever since the new administration took over has been the large piles of garbage that are visible in many wards. The Opposition parties have alleged a lack of coordination for the state of affairs now, compared to a system of doorstep collection that was functioning reasonably well till last year.
Though the Haritha Karma Sena (HKS) volunteers have been collecting non biodegradable waste from most places, these are often filled in sacks which are piled up in abandoned plots by the roadside. The delay in removing the piled up waste has been a concern for many residents’ associations. The administration has cited the shortage of vehicles for HKS volunteers to transport waste as one of the reasons for the delay in clearing. V.K.Prasanth MLA, a former Mayor of the Corporation, on Monday alleged that the aid which was being provided by the Corporation for dialysis patients has not been disbursed in recent months.
Due to this, as many as 236 dialysis patients in the city are finding it hard to get proper treatment. “Patients have to spend around ₹1,200 to ₹1,500 for one dialysis. Since dialysis has to be done at least once a week, patients spend around ₹6,000 per month. Considering that this is a big burden for poor patients, the scheme of conducting 4 dialysis sessions per month at a rate of ₹900 was implemented during the Left Democratic Front’s tenure. This was a great relief for poor patients. This scheme is being sabotaged without timely payment,” alleged Mr.Prasanth.
Meanwhile, the LDF has continued its protest demanding the ouster of BJP councillor R.Sugathan, who was arrested under the Kerala Anti-Social Activities (Prevention) Act (KAAPA), and currently lodged at the high-security correctional facility at Viyyur Central Prison in Thrissur. After the recent council meeting which witnessed strong pushback from both the LDF and the UDF, the ruling BJP is also facing the accusation of attempting to destroy the attendance register and the minutes book to aid the accused councilor’s ongoing legal case.
