Imran Shah Flags Large-Scale Irregularities in Municipal Council Anantnag, Seeks Probe
Anantnag, Jan 11:: National Conference (NC) District Vice President Anantnag, Imran Amin Shah, on Sunday launched a scathing attack on former Municipal Council Anantnag (MCA) Chairman Hilal Ahmad Shah, accusing him of rampant corruption, misuse of official authority, and plundering public resources during his tenure.
Interacting with a group of senior citizens in Anantnag, Imran Shah alleged that the former Municipal Chairman failed to address the core developmental needs of the historic town and instead presided over a regime marked by corruption and maladministration. He accused Hilal Ahmad Shah of abusing his official position, allowing his close aides to exploit residents, and turning a blind eye to genuine civic issues.
Imran Shah informed that a written complaint had been submitted to the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) and the Crime Branch Kashmir, highlighting several alleged irregularities, including fake works, questionable installation of air conditioners at the Town Hall, and dubious procurement of hoppers. However, he regretted that the investigations were allegedly suppressed due to political pressure.
He further alleged that over 100 illegal commercial structures were permitted in gross violation of established norms, and claimed that the proceeds of these activities were siphoned off to the former chairman’s associates, who subsequently amassed substantial properties in Bajalta, Jammu, and other locations.
Terming the construction of marriage halls, particularly in Sarnal, Anantnag, as a glaring example of corruption, Shah also expressed concern over the deplorable condition of the Indoor Stadium at Bangidar, which he said resembled a “cowshed” and urgently required attention. He added that the absence and ambiguity surrounding functional slaughterhouses further reflected administrative failure.
Referring to the recently constructed road divider on Court Road, Anantnag, Imran Shah said it had exposed the former chairman’s so-called “developmental vision” and demanded its immediate demolition.
Imran Shah urged the Anti-Corruption Bureau and Crime Branch Kashmir to expedite and conclude the pending investigations and ensure strict legal action against Hilal Ahmad Shah and his associates. He noted that the Municipal Council Anantnag had received over ₹100 crore in government funding, yet little tangible development was visible on the ground.
