BJP MLA Vijender Gupta’s wife moves HC against CIC order on MCD pension

BJP MLA Vijender Gupta’s wife on Tuesday moved the Delhi High Court against a Central Information Commission (CIC) order that said councilors would be individually responsible for recommending ineligible persons for pension scheme meant for senior citizens and disabled.

BJP MLA Vijender Gupta’s wife on Tuesday moved the Delhi High Court against a Central Information Commission (CIC) order that said councillors would be individually responsible for recommending ineligible persons for pension scheme meant for senior citizens and disabled.

Shobha Vijender, councilor from Rohini zone of North MCD, was asked by CIC to explain how had she authorised disbursal of pension to a woman, who was not eligible for it. (Sonu Mehta/HT File)

Shobha Vijender, councillor from Rohini zone of North MCD, was asked by CIC to explain how had she authorised disbursal of pension to a woman, who was not eligible for it.

CIC’s May 13 order came on a plea filed by one Charanjit Singh Bhatia, who had filed an RTI application in chief minister’s office, saying his wife was not getting disability pension she was entitled to.

The commission had turned down Bhatia’s application noting that his wife was not entitled to get the pension as his monthly income was above R27,000.

“There was an endorsement and signature by area councillor Shobha Vijender, along with a seal of approval,” the CIC had said, adding, “The commission requires Shobha Vijender to explain... why an ineligible applicant was recommended for the pension in glaring violation of income norms”.

Shobha Vijender, however, in her petition has stated that the order has been passed without even giving an opportunity of hearing.

“Fundamental rights of the petitioner have been infringed. The petitioner is not the authority which sanctions pension. As per DMC Act, pensions are sanctioned by the commissioner of NDMC,” her petition said.

The matter will be heard on October 24.