IT News
Imphal, Feb 24:
A formal representation has been submitted to the Governor of Manipur, highlighting the rampant unauthorized collection of vehicle parking fees within the Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC) areas by unscrupulous individuals. Copies of the representation have also been furnished to the Imphal Municipal Corporation, the Superintendent of Police (Traffic), and the Officer-in-Charge of the City Police Station, seeking immediate intervention.
According to information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, permits granted to various organizations for operating parking services within IMC areas have expired. Despite this, the illegal collection of parking fees continues unabated, imposing undue hardship on the public.
Also Read: Huge extortion in the name of vehicle parking underway under IMC jurisdiction
The unauthorized fee collection has led to arbitrary charges, violating public rights and creating financial burdens. Additionally, the lack of valid permits has resulted in mismanagement, a lack of accountability, and potential misuse of public spaces. This illegal practice also deprives the government of legitimate revenue that could otherwise be used for public welfare.
The unauthorized collection of fees violates Section 318(4) BNS, which penalizes acts of cheating and dishonest inducement. Furthermore, it directly contravenes the provisions of the Manipur Municipalities Act, 1994, under Sections 74 and 75, which mandate that only the municipal authority can regulate and collect parking fees. The practice also infringes upon the fundamental rights of citizens under Article 300A of the Constitution of India, which guarantees that no person shall be deprived of their property except by the authority of law.
In light of these concerns, the representation urges the Governor to direct the concerned authorities to immediately halt the unauthorized collection of parking fees within IMC areas. It also calls for the Imphal Municipal Corporation to clarify the status of vehicle parking permits and ensure that only authorized entities manage parking spaces. Furthermore, it demands legal proceedings against those engaging in illegal parking fee collection and the implementation of transparent policies for future issuance of parking permits to prevent such irregularities.
Swift and stringent measures are necessary to safeguard public interests and uphold the rule of law. The complainant, Khangembam Shamungou Singh, has called for urgent action to restore order and ensure that the parking system in Imphal is regulated fairly and lawfully.
Imphal Times had earlier reported this matter.