Video: Fire brigade tanker used to wash Gujarat MLA's home, row erupts

A viral video shows a municipal fire brigade tanker washing Gujarat MLA Bachubhai Khabad's residence in Dahod. The footage has prompted an inquiry into whether government machinery was used for a private purpose.

In Short

• Viral video shows municipal fire tanker washing ex-minister Bachubhai Khabad's home
• Video from Gujarat's Dahod sparks controversy over misuse
• Fire brigade vehicles are meant for firefighting, rescue and emergency services

A video showing a government fire brigade tanker being used to wash the private residence of Gujarat MLA and former minister Bachubhai Khabad has triggered controversy in Dahod district.

The video, which surfaced on social media, shows a fire brigade vehicle belonging to the Devgarh Baria municipality spraying water at Khabad’s residence in Dhanpur taluka.

The fire brigade vehicle is meant for emergency services such as firefighting and rescue operations. Its alleged use for cleaning a private property has raised questions over the use of government resources for personal purposes.

The controversy escalated after the video went viral, prompting the Devgarh Baria municipal administration to take note of the matter.

According to information from the municipality, a fee of Rs 2,700 was collected in the name of Khabad’s son, Balwant Khabad, for the use of the fire brigade vehicle. A receipt was also reportedly issued for the amount.

The municipality’s chief officer said further legal action was being examined in the matter.

The administration’s inquiry is now expected to establish whether the use of the fire brigade tanker was permitted under municipal rules or whether government machinery was used for a private purpose.

- Ends