Locals protest as govt scraps Parbhani temple hall project, redirects funds

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The state planning department has cancelled Rs1 crore sanctioned for temple work in Sonpeth, Parbhani district, sparking anger among locals.A govt resolution (GR) issued on Oct 25 last year approved the funds, and a foundation stone ceremony was held four days later in the presence of NCP MLA Rajesh Vitekar. However, a recent GR has announced cancellation of the temple work concerned and diverted the money for civic works in Manwat.In a strongly worded letter to CM Devendra Fadnavis, locals expressed "anguish and surprise" over the decision."It is regrettable and an insult to the faith of the devotees to cancel the funds approved for the construction of the assembly hall in the temple area while the tender process is in the final stage and use the money for the work of drains," the letter states.Some residents accused Vitekar of sanctioning the funds to influence voters ahead of recent local civic polls."As he did not get expected votes from the Sonpeth area and the party lost the polls, the funds sanctioned have been cancelled. It is a condemnable act and locals will develop the fund through crowd funding without begging before the NCP MLA," said a villager on condition of anonymity.Vitekar denied the accusation, saying the funds were diverted to prevent them from lapsing."The newly elected ruling party leaders in the local civic body deliberately delayed the tendering process of the temple even if the fiscal was nearing end. To counter this move, I diverted the fund. Needless to say, I am committed to completing the temple work and money for it will be arranged soon," he said.