Major Shakeup:Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Chief Engineer removed

By : Babushahi Bureau
First Published : Friday, Oct 24, 2025 04:05 PM
Updated : Friday, Oct 24, 2025 04:11 PM

Major Shakeup:Chandigarh Municipal Corporation Chief Engineer removed

Babushahi Bureau

Chandigarh, October 24, 2025: In a major administrative reshuffle at the Chandigarh Municipal Corporation (MC), Chief Engineer Sanjay Arora has been removed from his post following direct orders from Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.

Sources indicate that the decision comes amid long-standing discontent among BJP councillors and ongoing conflict with Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla. KP Singh is reportedly in strong consideration to take over as the new Chief Engineer.

Removed Before Completing 3-Year Tenure

Sanjay Arora’s removal is being viewed as unusual and significant:

Governor’s Direct Intervention: The decision was reportedly approved directly by the Governor’s office, whereas such transfers typically require clearance from the Home Secretary (Local Government).

Incomplete Tenure: Arora, appointed on deputation on September 24, 2024, did not complete his three-year term, making him the first Chief Engineer in recent years to be removed before tenure completion.

According to sources, complaints against Arora had reached the Governor’s office over time:

Conflict with Councillors: Despite being favored by some municipal officials, Arora reportedly failed to coordinate with BJP councillors, particularly those close to Mayor Harpreet Kaur Babla.

Stalled Projects: Councillors alleged that no major municipal projects progressed successfully during his tenure.

Leaks of Information: Dissatisfaction arose over concerns that sensitive information regarding the Manimajra Housing Project was allegedly leaking to the opposition.

Architect Department Complaints: Even the municipal Architect Department expressed grievances against his working methods.

Notably, Arora was the first Chief Engineer to be appointed on deputation directly from the UT Administration, instead of the usual Punjab or Haryana cadre officers. Following his removal, he is expected to rejoin the UT Administration.