Why Did MCG Remove Mayor's Husband from Advisory Role?

Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram has rescinded the advisory appointment of Tilakraj Malhotra, husband of Mayor Raj Rani Malhotra, following intense opposition criticism. This significant move raises questions about nepotism and women's representation in governance.
Key Takeaways
- MCG rescinds appointment of Mayor's husband after opposition backlash.
- This incident highlights issues of nepotism in political appointments.
- Criticism from Congress emphasizes the importance of women’s reservation.
- Political implications extend beyond local governance to broader constitutional values.
- Transfer of Hitesh Kumar Meena raises questions about administrative decisions.
Gurugram, April 30 (NationPress) The Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG) has officially retracted the appointment of Tilakraj Malhotra, spouse of the newly elected Mayor Raj Rani Malhotra, as an advisor due to significant criticism from opposition parties.
Just a week prior, MCG Commissioner Ashok Kumar Garg had dispatched a letter confirming Tilakraj's appointment to the unpaid advisory position. However, in light of political backlash, the civic authority rescinded the decision on Tuesday night.
The announcement of Tilakraj's role prompted strong objections from opposition factions, especially the Congress party. Party member Pearl Chaudhary condemned the move as a breach of constitutional ethics, asserting it undermines the essence of women's reservation.
"This decision illustrates the BJP's contradictory stance on nepotism. The Act does not endorse such positions for relatives. If husbands are to manage the office, then what is the significance of women’s reservation? Couldn’t the spouse of a female councillor also become an advisor?" she stated.
Tilakraj Malhotra, a former BJP district president who has previously contested Assembly elections, was anticipated to provide assistance to the mayor with designated tasks.
In related news, Additional Deputy Commissioner Hitesh Kumar Meena, who had issued a caste certificate to Raj Rani Malhotra before the elections, has received a transfer. He now serves as the Additional CEO of the Haryana Kisan Kalyan Pradhikaran.
This transfer follows a Gurugram court's issuance of notices to the Deputy Commissioner, ADC, Mayor, and Congress mayoral candidate Seema Pahuja concerning a petition challenging the caste certificate. The timing of Meena’s transfer has raised suspicions regarding its connection to the ongoing controversy.