Ludhiana: Mayor Inderjit Kaur completed her first year leading the city on Wednesday, a milestone marked by a ceremonial gathering that highlighted deep divisions within the municipal corporation that runs Punjab‘s largest industrial hub.Inderjit Kaur, the first woman to hold the office, marked the anniversary of her Jan 20, 2025, inauguration with a get-together and group photograph at the Pakhowal Road Indoor Stadium. However, the event was shadowed by a boycott from Congress party councillors, who accused the administration of partisanship and failing to deliver on infrastructure promises.
A vision for reformUpon taking the oath of office last year alongside senior deputy mayor Rakesh Prashar and deputy mayor Prince Johar, Kaur pledged a “corruption-free” administration. Her initial agenda prioritised standardising employee attendance at municipal zonal offices, improving sanitation, providing potable drinking water, streamlining public services, and beautifying the city.While the mayor’s early months were defined by surprise inspections of staff attendance, critics argue that the momentum for reform has since slowed to a “normal pace”, leaving several key campaign promises unfulfilled as the city’s fiscal health declined.Political friction and administrative challengesThe mayor’s first year has been characterised by a strained relationship with the opposition. Congress and BJP leaders have expressed concerns regarding the influence of Punjab governing party AAP’s legislators on civic matters. Sham Sunder Malhotra, leader of the Congress councillors, suggested that Inderjit Kaur — a first-time councillor — has struggled to navigate the complexities of the municipal body. “In the past, mayors sought the counsel of senior members,” Malhotra said. “The current administration has not maintained that tradition of collaboration.”The friction escalated recently following a six-day protest by opposition members. Rohit Sikka, deputy leader of the BJP councillors, noted that the filing of first-information reports (FIRs) against fellow councillors during these disputes has created an unusually tense political environment. He further claimed that during house meetings, MLAs frequently answer queries that would typically fall under the mayor’s jurisdiction.Boycott at the stadiumThe anniversary celebrations on Wednesday saw a notable absence of Congress representatives. Councillor Gaurav Bhatti announced the boycott on social media, clarifying that the move was a protest against the administration’s “partial” approval of development works. “We have no personal grudges,” Bhatti stated. “We are advocating for public rights. The administration must listen to all councillors and ensure equal treatment for all wards.“Despite the political turbulence, the mayor’s office proceeded with the commemorative group photograph—a tradition usually reserved for the end of a term — signalling Inderjit Kaur’s intent to document the current leadership’s place in Ludhiana’s history. MSID:: 126982475 413 |
