
Maharashtra introduces bill empowering Nasik Kumbh Mela authority to permit temporary townships
Mumbai: The state govt has introduced a bill granting sweeping powers to the Nasik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority for managing the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, scheduled to be held in Nasik next year.
The bill follows an ordinance introduced in June. The Kumbh Mela is organised every 12 years, and the last event in 2015 attracted 2.5 crore devotees.
According to the bill, the authority will have the power to grant permission for any development, including the layout of any new temporary city or township for the purpose of stay or tourism for citizens attending the Kumbh Mela. It will also have the power to grant permission to construct structures, including buildings or any material such as tents and huts, streets, and amenities around such a city or township.
The bill also states that during the period such permission is given, the provision of any plan, including the development plan, regional plan, final town planning scheme, rule, bye-law, or notification made under any law, will not be applicable.
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According to the bill, the authority will have the power to provide road connectivity from a nearby major road to the new township or city. The permission for such development, including the layout, city, or township, shall last only as long as decided by the authority and will not exceed two years.
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Additionally, no court will have the jurisdiction to entertain any suit or proceeding against any action or order issued by the authority.
The bill states that the authority will have the power to prosecute those guilty of obstructing or failing to cooperate with any officer or employee authorised by the authority. Punishment could be a jail term extended up to one year, a fine, or both.
According to the bill, the 22-member authority will be headed by the Nasik Divisional Commissioner. A committee of ministers will be set up to review the work of the authority, review its report, and approve the fees imposed by the authority.

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