Chandigarh mayor denies graft claims over Manimajra land auction

Chandigarh Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla strongly denied allegations of corruption regarding the Manimajra land auction, calling them politically motivated. Facing criticism from opposition councillors, she held a press conference on Wednesday to clarify the situation and defend her actions. Babla accused opposition members of engaging in “dirty politics” and spreading false claims to tarnish her image.

The controversy began when opposition councillors alleged that the mayor had rushed the proposal to sell a prime land parcel in Manimajra without proper discussion. Babla firmly rejected this claim, stating that the proposal had been presented six times before the Municipal Corporation (MC) House. On each occasion, she said, opposition councillors either refused to participate in discussions or walked out, preventing a proper debate. She clarified that the zoning plan for the project was prepared by the Union Territory administration, while the reserve price was set by the estate office, leaving no role for the mayor or municipal officials in deciding these aspects.

Babla also addressed accusations that the auction was meant to benefit the BJP or herself financially during her remaining three-month term. She questioned how corruption could take place before the auction or tendering process begins, especially when e-tendering is involved. Calling the allegations “baseless” and “insulting to a woman,” she demanded that the opposition provide proof to support their claims. The mayor specifically referred to Congress councillor Sachin Galav, who had made such accusations.

Background of the Manimajra land auction

The Manimajra land auction concerns a prime 6.9-acre parcel in Shivalik Enclave, reserved for residential development under the city’s master plan. The plot includes five smaller plots in Pocket Number 6, with a combined reserve price exceeding ₹794 crore. The Chandigarh Municipal Corporation decided on September 30 to redraft the terms, conditions, and zoning plan for the auction. The auction is expected to attract major real estate developers and will be conducted globally through e-tendering. A special committee will monitor the auction process to ensure transparency and fairness.

The opposition, however, has disputed several aspects of the auction. Congress president HS Lucky claimed that the land would actually be sold as a single plot measuring more than 12 acres, which he said could increase the base price by nearly ₹400 crore. He described the mayor’s announcement that the land would be sold in a single chunk, without roads or parks, as a supposed victory for the opposition. Babla dismissed this claim, stating that the opposition is misrepresenting the facts to create unnecessary controversy.

Babla also addressed another issue raised by the opposition regarding road repairs in the city. The opposition had filed a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court challenging the transfer of V3 roads to the UT administration for recarpeting. Babla pointed out that only four councillors were formally removed from the House, while the rest voluntarily staged a walkout. She emphasized that the residents’ needs should come first, regardless of whether the roads are maintained by the Municipal Corporation or UT administration.

Former mayor Anup Gupta supported Babla’s stance, saying that if the opposition truly wanted the roads repaired, they could have approved the agenda instead of protesting. He stated that the opposition’s refusal to cooperate reflects their unwillingness to support city development. Babla reiterated that the MC is committed to transparency, fairness, and effective governance, while opposition councillors appear more focused on political gains.

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Mayor’s call for transparency and accountability

Throughout the press conference, Babla stressed the need for fact-based discussions and cautioned against spreading false narratives. She reassured citizens that the auction and other developmental projects would follow strict legal and administrative procedures. The mayor highlighted that the opposition’s claims of corruption were unfounded and intended to disrupt progress in the city.

She concluded by stating that the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation remains committed to development and public welfare, and urged political parties to prioritize residents’ interests over political posturing. Babla’s defense comes amid growing scrutiny over governance and the transparency of land deals, especially for high-value urban properties in the city.

With the Manimajra auction set to proceed under monitored conditions, the focus now shifts to ensuring fair bidding, smooth administrative processes, and timely completion of development projects. The controversy has highlighted tensions between the ruling BJP-led administration and the opposition, but Babla insists that governance, not politics, will guide the city’s decisions.