In a startling revelation, a land scandal has emerged involving 7.90 Gunthas (approximately 8603.1 sq. ft.) of land owned by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in Punawale. The illicit registration, done through fraudulent means, raises serious concerns about the transparency of land transactions, particularly for the expansion of National Highway No. 4. The issue was brought to the forefront through a written complaint filed by Pradeep Takle, prompting further investigation.
Takle’s complaint, submitted to the Deputy Collector, Land Acquisition No. 2, Satara, on November 11, details the illegal purchase of government-owned land for fertilizer use without proper documentation. Despite complaints lodged with various authorities, including the project director of the National Highway Authority and local administrative officers, no action has been taken in the two months since the complaints were filed.
The complainant alleges a conspiracy involving a fertilizer dealer, a local official, and the co-secondary registrar, with the support of some senior officials. The incident dates back to 2012 when 7.90 Gunthas of land were acquired for the widening of NH 4. However, in January 2023, a builder and accomplices allegedly made a bogus purchase of the NHAI-owned developed area without proper authorization.
The accusations include cheating the government by registering the document without NHAI’s prior permission. Sanjay Kadam, Project Director of NHAI, is yet to respond to the allegations despite repeated attempts to contact him.
