PIL in Guj HC seeks probe in water theft by minister's aides

A PIL has been filed in Gujarat High Court seeking investigation in connection with water theft in Porbandar.
The petitioners Meldabhai Ranavaya and two others from Porbandar have claimed "people who are distant relatives and workers of state Agriculture Minister and BJP MLA from Porbandar Babu Bokhiria have resorted to illegal trading of water from the public water distribution pipelines and selling it at a higher price".
The petitioner has demanded investigation and action against those involved in water theft.
"Even though complaints were made to the local police and district administrations, they have been told by Bokhiria not to take any action in the matter," the petition said and demanded investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The PIL, filed through advocate Babu Mangukia, has claimed that Porbandar, with population of about 1.52 lakh, requires 22 MLD (Million Litre per Day) but it is being supplied only 3-4 MLD.
"Even when whole region is reeling under water woes, people having political protection from the Agriculture Minister are resorting to illegal trading of water," it alleged.
Hearing on the PIL is likely to be held tomorrow.
State Congress president Arjun Modhvadia, who lost to Bokhiria in December 2012 assembly elections, had led a demonstration against those allegedly stealing and selling that drinking water in Porbandar last week.