Journalist Vinod Yadav’s struggle against corruption: Dharna continues for four days even in rain, Ideal Patrakar Sangathan comes out in support
Virar/Palghar (Maharashtra): As a fearless and combative voice against the corruption and unauthorized construction works prevalent in the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation, journalist Vinod Yadav has been sitting on a dharna for the last four days despite continuous rain. He is the Palghar District President of Ideal Patrakar Sangathan (Area: Whole India).
Vinod Yadav alleges that a large number of unauthorized buildings have been constructed in the Vasai-Virar area of Palghar district with the connivance of the Municipal Corporation officials. He informed the higher officials several times about this serious matter with complaint letters and evidence, but every time only paperwork and formality was done. When no concrete action was taken despite continuous efforts, he adopted the democratic path and chose the path of dharna.
The shocking thing is that even after four days of this peaceful satyagraha of the journalist, neither any administrative officer nor any public representative came to meet him, due to which the resentment and anger deepened further.
In view of this entire incident, a high-level delegation led by the National President of Ideal Journalist Organization, Mr. Ajay Kumar Mishra, reached Virar to meet Vinod Yadav and get information about the situation. This delegation included Maharashtra State President Sanjay Rai, Central Joint Secretary Jamuna Chavan, State General Secretary Kavita Phulpagar, District Patron Suresh Jaiswal, District Vice President Rohit Giri.
The delegation then met Deputy Commissioner of Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation, Mr. Deepak Sawant and informed him about the seriousness of the matter and sought details of the action taken so far. On this, the Deputy Commissioner assured that,
> “We are well aware of this entire episode. Strict action will be taken against the guilty officers and corrupt people within the next one week.”
The Deputy Commissioner also requested Vinod Yadav to end the dharna, but the office bearers of the organization made it clear that the dharna will continue until symbolic action is initiated against the corrupt.
Maharashtra State President Sanjay Rai said bluntly,
> “If no concrete action is taken in the coming days, then the organization will demand intervention from the Maharashtra government on this issue and will start a big mass movement.”
During this time, many senior journalists associated with the Maharashtra Journalist Organization were also present in support. Everyone demanded in one voice that ignoring the voice of honest journalists is not only a threat to democracy, but it also raises questions on the accountability of the administration.
Ending note:
This struggle of journalist Vinod Yadav is not only a personal fight of a journalist, but it is a bold step taken to protect the truth and public interest. If the administration does not take appropriate action on this in time, then this movement can take a statewide form in the coming days.
