Siliguri, 06th October: Councilor Dilip Barman of Ward No. 46 of Siliguri Municipal Corporation has publicly criticized Mayor Gautam Deb accusing him of not acting up to his role as the mayor. The councilor’s statement was in response to the long-standing issue of a dilapidated road in the Pabitra Nagar area. Reportedly, the road becomes severely waterlogged during the monsoon. Meanwhile, despite the locals informing the administration about this issue, no resolution has been found.
Barman expressed his frustration over the lack of action regarding road repairs. He accused Mayor Gautam Deb of merely running a ‘Talk to Mayor’ program for the show, stating that complaints about the road condition have been raised three times in the past year through this initiative. However, only preliminary measurements have been taken without actual work. Barman suggested that the mayor discontinue the program since it failed to produce results.
Additionally, Barman accused the mayor of practicing a form of “Hitler-like” governance, claiming that council meetings do not allow other members or councilors to voice their opinions. He alleged that whatever the mayor decides is followed without question.
Furthermore, Barman revealed that the Municipal Corporation owes crores to several road construction companies. As a result, road repair works are being hindered. He attributed this issue directly to the mayor’s management.
The sharp criticism from the councilor has intensified political tensions within the corporation. Meanwhile, Mayor Gautam Deb has refrained from commenting on the accusations.