The controversy over the office of CPI-M’s Vattiyoorkavu MLA and former Mayor V.K. Prasanth in a Thiruvananthapuram Corporation-owned building at Sasthamangalam has sparked a political and administrative issue. The state capital’s civic body has decided to investigate alleged irregularities in leasing its buildings to private individuals. This move follows demands for the MLA to vacate his office by a former DGP, leading to political tensions.
The new BJP-led governing committee has accused previous CPI-M administrations of malpractice in leasing Corporation properties. Preliminary findings suggest that many buildings and shop rooms owned by the Corporation have changed hands multiple times, with current occupants not being the original tenants. These transfers, allegedly involving significant sums, have raised concerns as official rents were reportedly nominal.
The Corporation plans to reclaim unauthorized transfers and scrutinize lease agreements in detail. The decision to launch a comprehensive probe coincides with escalating political tensions surrounding the Sasthamangalam office dispute. While efforts are made to downplay the political aspect, the Corporation aims to ensure proper realization of public revenue from rent and taxes.
Former Congress legislator and current councilor K.S. Sabarinathan emphasized the need for the Corporation to review the lease agreement between the Corporation and Prasanth. He highlighted the availability of well-furnished rooms at the MLA Hostel for MLAs, questioning the necessity for Prasanth to retain the Sasthamangalam office. The issue raises broader questions about the use of public resources for official purposes.
