Maharashtra's BJP opposition leader Eknath Khadse read out a letter by Chief Conservator of Forests Suresh Thorat here today, alleging that NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad had prevented his officials from demolishing illegal encroachments in Thane district's Mumbra area, where a seven-storeyed building collapsed recently, killing 74 people.
Mentioning that Thorat's letter was addressed to the state chief secretary, while speaking on the Forest Department's budgetary demands, Khadse said that, if the illegal structures had been demolished, innocent lives would have been saved.
Quoting the letter, Khadse alleged that Awhad had threatened forest officials that they would have to face dire consequences if they went ahead with the demolition.
However, Public Works Department (PWD) minister Chhagan Bhujbal objected to Khadse's comments, saying that before levelling allegations, he should have intimated the speaker and the concerned member of legislative assembly.
Presiding officer Uttamrao Dikle who was in the chair also read out the rules in this regard. Amid noisy scenes, the house was adjourned for ten minutes.
Later, Awhad said that illegal structures can be demolished only after those residing in them are provided alternate accomodation.
