Nagpur: A group of residents from Loha Oli in Itwari, who had come to Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) headquarters on Thursday to meet municipal commissioner Vipin Itankar to demand removal of alleged encroachments by scrap dealers, got into a heated argument with the civic chief’s security personnel after being prevented from entering his chamber.The residents, part of a delegation seeking an audience with Itankar, had been waiting outside his office. However, just as their turn came, former MLA and BJP leader Sudhakar Kohale entered the commissioner’s chamber. Agitated over the delay, some members of the delegation allegedly tried to force their way inside.Police constable Pankaj Uke, deployed for the commissioner’s security, intervened and stopped them, leading to a heated exchange. Hearing the commotion, Itankar called the residents inside his office and heard their grievances.The delegation complained about alleged encroachments by scrap dealers in Loha Oli, Itwari, and accused NMC’s enforcement department of failing to act despite repeated complaints.After hearing them, Itankar forwarded their representation to deputy commissioner (enforcement) Mangesh Khawale and directed him to conduct an inquiry and initiate demolition action if encroachments were found.Itankar also defended constable Uke, telling the residents that the policeman was merely performing his security duties and had not intentionally given anyone preferential access.
