Maharashtra Opposition demands joint probe into Adarsh scam

The opposition in the Maharashtra legislature today made a demand for an inquiry into the Adarsh scam by a joint legislature committee (JLC).

The parties said Ashok Chavan’s resignation as the chief minister for his alleged involvement in the scandal was not enough and a thorough probe by a JLC was important.

The parties alleged that politicians, bureaucrats and defence officials have grabbed flats in the Adarsh society that was meant for widows of Kargil heroes. While the state assembly was adjourned for some time, the business in the Upper House continued amid the demand for JLC.

The state government shown its willingness to discuss the Adarsh scam on Tuesday in both the Houses. Announcements in this regard were made by the Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan told the state assembly of his willingness to discuss the issue. His deputy Ajit Pawar conveyed similar sentiments in the state council.

However, a senior Congress minister, requesting anonymity, told Business Standard that the government will not agree to constitute an inquiry by a JLC into the Adarsh scam, but would assure the legislatures that those involved in it will not be spared.

“The government has already issued notices to 15 bureaucrats – both serving and retired – regarding the flats owned by their proxies in the Adarsh building. Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has already directed concerned departments to cooperate with the Central Bureau of Investigation, which is probing the scam, by providing necessary papers.” The minister was quite categorical that JLC probe was out of question.

On the other hand, Shiv Sena leader Subhash Desai said the JLC probe was necessary. He said the opposition would press the government on this issue.