Pune Activist Alleges Mantra Builders Distributing Expensive Gifts To PMC Officials; Seeks ACB Probe

Pune: Pune-based activist Sanjay Kone has alleged that city-based developer Mantra Properties is distributing expensive gift hampers to Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officers to influence civic decisions.

Kone on Tuesday claimed that a large stock of designer bags and wooden gift boxes bearing the 'Mantra' branding was found inside the PMC premises and near officers' chambers.

He alleged that the boxes, bearing the company's name and religious shlokas, contain puja material, bells, designer modak boxes and other valuables, and are being distributed on the pretext of the festival season to woo officers.

According to Kone, the gifts are aimed at achieving commercial objectives, easing tender processes, obtaining irregular permissions and clearing pending files.

Citing Rule 12 of the Maharashtra Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1979, which bars government officers from accepting gifts from private persons or businesses, Kone said the alleged open distribution raises serious questions about administrative transparency.

He demanded an immediate inquiry by the Municipal Commissioner and suspension of officers who accepted the gifts, strict legal action against Mantra Properties, and a detailed probe by the Anti-Corruption Bureau under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

"This practice amounts to direct encouragement to corruption. If no action is taken, we will launch a strong agitation," Kone warned.

The Free Press Journal approached the PMC officials for their clarification on the allegation, but they did not respond before the article was published. Their response will be updated in the copy once it is received.

Meanwhile, the Mantra Group responded to the allegations. "Ganeshotsav holds a special place in hearts of us Punekars. As always, this year too we celebrated Ganeshotsav with a hamper of an aarti kit and modaks for our friends and family. This hamper is just a gesture and had no intention of whatever is being said around in the media. This hamper is filled with sweets and religious items only, there no other intention with this. Whatever is being spread around is false," spokesperson of Mantra Group told The Free Press Journal.