In a significant move, the Haryana government has established a four-member committee to investigate the recent affordable housing allotments in Sohna. The committee’s formation follows allegations of irregularities during the e-draw conducted on January 27, where all 708 residential units went exclusively to applicants from Sohna, raising concerns about compliance with the Affordable Housing Policy 2013.
- All 708 flats in Sohna were allocated to local applicants.
- A four-member committee has been formed to investigate the e-draw process.
Committee Formed to Investigate E-Draw Process
The Haryana government responded swiftly to the controversy surrounding the affordable housing project in Sector 36, Sohna, by forming a four-member committee aimed at scrutinizing the e-draw mechanism. The committee is tasked with investigating whether the issues were the result of a technical glitch, administrative error, or potential bias in the allotment process. According to a statement from the Director of Town and Country Planning, Amit Khatri, “The draw conducted for the affordable housing project in Sector 36, Sohna stands cancelled. A fresh draw will be conducted following the policy guidelines.”
This inquiry comes after it was revealed that out of 51,586 applicants, all selected candidates were from Sohna, which raises questions about transparency and fairness. The committee includes senior planners and project managers who will examine the e-draw software to ensure compliance with state-wide eligibility criteria. Their report is expected within ten days, during which the allotments will remain on hold.
Reactions from Applicants and Stakeholders
The controversial draw has sparked widespread concern among applicants and stakeholders in the affordable housing sector. Reshma, a hopeful applicant from Delhi, expressed her disappointment: “I applied for this project hoping for a fair chance, but now it seems like the system was rigged. How can all selected applicants be from Sohna when thousands from across Delhi-NCR have applied?” This sentiment is echoed by many applicants who feel excluded from a process meant to be equitable.
Another applicant, Arvind Kumar, emphasized the need for change, stating, “Affordable housing is meant for everyone, not just people from a particular town. If the system is biased, what’s the point of applying? The government should take strict action and overhaul the e-draw mechanism to prevent such irregularities.” The fears surrounding transparency could deter future applicants, indicating potential repercussions for the affordable housing initiative in Haryana.
Future Implications of the Probe Findings
The findings of the probe committee could have far-reaching implications for the future of affordable housing in Haryana. If the investigation uncovers significant flaws in the e-draw process, it may lead to a comprehensive overhaul of the current system. Stakeholders are eagerly awaiting the committee’s report, as it will determine the fate of the applicants and the credibility of the affordable housing initiative in the region.
Experts believe that establishing transparency is crucial for restoring public trust. According to Dr. Neelam Sharma, a housing policy analyst, “The investigation’s outcome will be pivotal in reshaping the perception of affordable housing in Haryana. Ensuring fairness will encourage more applicants and foster a sense of community trust in governmental processes.”
