Former Mayor Seeks Probe into Alleged Collection from Tempo Drivers at Public Places; Demands Action if Irregularities Are Found
Muzaffarpur | Correspondent
Former Muzaffarpur Mayor Suresh Kumar has written to the Municipal Commissioner, demanding a thorough investigation into the alleged collection of money from tempo drivers at various public places in the city using municipal corporation receipts. In his letter, he expressed concern that if the collections are being made without proper authorization or outside the prescribed rules, they should be stopped immediately and strict action should be taken against those responsible.
The issue has sparked discussion among transport operators and local residents, as tempo drivers reportedly claim that payments are being collected from them at different locations while municipal receipts are being issued. The former mayor has urged the Municipal Commissioner to verify whether the collection process is officially approved and in accordance with municipal regulations.
Letter Submitted to the Municipal Commissioner
In his representation, Suresh Kumar requested the Municipal Commissioner to order a detailed inquiry into the matter.
He stated that if any individual or agency is collecting money from tempo drivers without legal authority or beyond the approved framework, the practice should be discontinued immediately.
He also stressed the need for transparency and accountability in all revenue collection activities carried out in the name of the municipal corporation.
Concern Over Collection at Public Places
According to the former mayor, tempo drivers have informed him that money is being collected from them at various public locations in the city and that municipal corporation receipts are being issued during the process.
He emphasized that the administration should verify whether these collections have been officially authorized and whether the amount being collected complies with existing municipal rules and regulations.
Demand for Transparency
Suresh Kumar said that any collection carried out by a public authority must be transparent and supported by proper legal provisions.
He argued that if the collection is legitimate, the civic body should clearly communicate its purpose, the applicable rates, and the legal basis to avoid confusion among transport operators.
Transparency, he said, would help strengthen public confidence in the functioning of the municipal administration.
Action Sought if Irregularities Are Found
The former mayor urged the Municipal Commissioner to take immediate action if the inquiry reveals any irregularity.
He said that unauthorized collection, if established, should be stopped without delay and those responsible should face appropriate disciplinary and legal action in accordance with the law.
He also called for measures to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.
Tempo Drivers Raise Concerns
Several tempo drivers have reportedly expressed concerns over the collection process, stating that they want clarity regarding the purpose of the payments and the authority under which they are being collected.
They have appealed to the municipal administration to issue clear guidelines so that drivers are not subjected to uncertainty or inconvenience.
Municipal Administration Yet to Respond
At the time of reporting, the Municipal Corporation had not issued any official statement regarding the allegations raised in the letter.
Officials are expected to examine the complaint and take an appropriate decision after reviewing all relevant records and procedures.
Importance of Fair Revenue Collection
Experts on urban governance believe that municipal revenue collection should always follow established legal procedures and remain transparent.
They noted that proper documentation, clearly defined fee structures, and public disclosure of authorized collections are essential to maintaining trust between civic authorities and citizens.
Public Interest at the Centre
The issue is being viewed as one of public interest because it concerns both municipal administration and the livelihood of public transport operators.
Observers believe that a fair and impartial inquiry will help establish the facts and ensure that any authorized collection is carried out in accordance with the law while preventing unauthorized practices.
Call for Administrative Accountability
Former Mayor Suresh Kumar has also emphasized that accountability is essential in public administration.
He urged civic authorities to ensure that every financial transaction conducted in the name of the Municipal Corporation is properly monitored and that any misuse of official receipts is dealt with strictly.
The letter submitted by former Muzaffarpur Mayor Suresh Kumar has brought attention to the alleged collection of money from tempo drivers at public places using municipal corporation receipts. He has requested a detailed inquiry and urged the Municipal Commissioner to take strict action if any unauthorized or irregular collection is found. The matter is now expected to be examined by the Municipal Corporation, whose findings will determine whether further administrative or legal action is required.
