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Surat Names Rajkumar Beniwal as New Municipal Commissioner Amid Demolition Controversy
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 06 Sep 2026, 03:34 PM
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Surat has appointed Rajkumar Beniwal as its new municipal commissioner following a series of controversial demolitions that sparked public outcry.
Surat City Corporation has named Rajkumar Beniwal as its new municipal commissioner, a move that comes in the wake of a series of demolition orders that drew criticism from residents and activists.
Beniwal, a former senior officer in the Gujarat state administration, is expected to steer the corporation through a period of heightened scrutiny and restore public confidence.
The appointment follows the recent demolitions of several structures, including a heritage building and a residential complex, which were carried out without adequate public consultation.
City officials say the new commissioner will focus on transparent decision‑making and community engagement to prevent similar controversies in the future.
Beniwal’s experience in urban planning and civic administration is seen as an asset in addressing the city’s growing infrastructure challenges.
Beniwal, a former senior officer in the Gujarat state administration, is expected to steer the corporation through a period of heightened scrutiny and restore public confidence.
The appointment follows the recent demolitions of several structures, including a heritage building and a residential complex, which were carried out without adequate public consultation.
City officials say the new commissioner will focus on transparent decision‑making and community engagement to prevent similar controversies in the future.
Beniwal’s experience in urban planning and civic administration is seen as an asset in addressing the city’s growing infrastructure challenges.