Unveiling Transparency: RTI Scrutinizes DMC, Urban Development, and Youth Resources in the Spotlight

Dimapur’s Urban Council Chairs Demand Transparency in Governance, Raise Health Concerns Over Air Quality

On February 28, the Dimapur Urban Council Chairs Federation (DUCCF) made public its intention to exercise its Right to Information (RTI) to seek information from three government entities, sparking a pursuit for transparency and accountability in Dimapur’s administrative bodies. At a press conference in Dimapur, DUCCF President Zasivikho Zakiesato announced the move, highlighting the need for greater disclosure in the city’s governance.

Seeking Information on Projects and Appointees

The DUCCF has filed RTI applications with the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC), Urban Development (UD) Department, and Department of Youth Resources and Sports (DYR&S), seeking information on various issues, including employee recruitment, salaries, revenue sources, and staff strength. One of the DMC’s 14 queries centers on the government’s stance on illegal or unauthorized appointments within the DMC, as around 430 employees have yet to receive their salaries since October 2024.

The applications also concern the status of the Multi-Disciplinary Sports Centre in Dimapur, which has remained incomplete for nearly 20 years since its construction began in 2006. The DUCCF is seeking information on tender notices, detailed project reports, and the project’s current progress.

Air Quality Concerns and Demands for Action

In a separate move, the DUCCF has written to the Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) to demand action on Dimapur’s poor air quality and transparency regarding the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) funds. The letter seeks a detailed report on NCAP fund allocation and utilization over the past five years, as well as public access to daily air quality reports.

The Dimapur Non-Attainment City classification has led to the degradation of air quality, despite funding from the NCAP. The DUCCF pointed to factors such as poor waste management, uncontrolled construction, vehicular emissions, road dust, illegal burning, and lack of road maintenance as major contributors to the city’s poor air quality.

Warning of Legal Action and Protests

The DUCCF has warned of filing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) against the NPCB, DMC, and Transport Department, as well as organizing protests, if no action is taken within 15 days.

Key Points:

• DUCCF filed RTI applications with DMC, Urban Development Department, and Department of Youth Resources and Sports
• Seeking information on employee recruitment, salaries, and staff strength
• Concerned about the incomplete Multi-Disciplinary Sports Centre in Dimapur, started in 2006
• Demanding action on Dimapur’s poor air quality and transparency on NCAP funds
• Warning of filing a PIL and organizing protests if no action is taken within 15 days

Read the full report on Morung Express: https://www.morungexpress.com/dmc-urban-development-and-youth-resources-come-under-rti-scanner

Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/dmc-urban-development-and-youth-resources-come-under-rti-scanner
Category : Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2025-02-28 23:00:00