After ED probe, former Mira-Bhayander commissioner could now face ACB case

Former Mira-Bhayander Commissioner Faces ACB Scrutiny Amid Hoarding Contract Allegations

After ED probe former Mira Bhayander - Mumbai's former Mira-Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC) commissioner, Dilip Dhole, now stands accused in an Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) inquiry following accusations tied to a hoarding contract that reportedly caused millions in financial loss to the civic body. This development comes after he was already linked to an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation.

MBMC Resolution Recommends ACB Involvement

The MBMC general body recently endorsed a proposal to transfer the case to the ACB, citing a potential connection between Dhole and the contractor involved. According to the resolution, "The case requires detailed scrutiny alongside existing probes by investigative bodies."

"The case needs to be thoroughly investigated, along with the other cases already under probe by investigating agencies."

Tender Process and Contract Award

In June 2022, the MBMC invited bids for a three-year hoarding contract, which was initially granted to a firm offering ₹11.69 crore annually—far exceeding the reserve price of ₹4.28 crore. However, the contract was later revoked after the elected council was dissolved and Dhole assumed the role of administrator, claiming procedural grounds for the cancellation.

Subsequently, Dhole authorized a 10-year contract for multiple advertising sites at a cost of ₹51.76 crore. The general body argues that this decision undervalued potential revenue compared to competitive bidding processes.

Mayor Addresses Loss Assessment

MBMC mayor Dimple Mehta confirmed that an internal panel is evaluating the financial impact of Dhole's actions. "His decisions have led to significant losses, limiting funds for development projects," she stated. Once the losses are quantified, the matter will be referred to the ACB.

Political Tensions Surface

Civic insiders noted that the BJP-led general body's resolution may have a political motive. "The resolution is thought to reflect a partisan stance," said one official, adding that Dhole's alleged ties to Eknath Shinde could influence the outcome. Mehta refuted these claims, emphasizing that "corruption is prioritized over political considerations, and the investigation is in the MBMC's best interest."

In August 2023, the government relieved Dhole of his commissioner post after the ED implicated him in the ULC scam. The probe suggested he used shell companies and benami entities to acquire high-value properties. Dhole contested this, stating that the work order was issued after his transfer and that the tender had actually boosted the corporation's earnings. "The urban development department confirmed there was no financial loss from the tender," he added.

Surendra P Gangan is a Senior Assistant Editor with the political bureau of Hindustan Times' Mumbai Edition. His coverage focuses on state politics and administrative affairs within Maharashtra's government, including developments in finance, agriculture, and social sectors.