Gurugram, Sept. 9 -- A WhatsApp group created to facilitate dialogue between Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), the Municipal Corporation of Gurugram (MCG), and residents turned contentious on Sunday after MCG commissioner Pradeep Dahiya objected to RWAs collecting money from businesses in exchange for displaying advertisements in colonies. Dahiya termed the practice a violation of municipal rules, triggering a heated debate that saw him, several officials, and one resident exit the group. The commissioner later clarified that RWAs were free to contribute to their neighbourhoods but could not bypass legal procedures. "It would have been far better if RWAs had sought prior permission instead of undertaking such practices informally," Dahiya said, adding that notices could be regularised by paying nominal fees. MCG officials confirmed showcause notices were issued to several RWAs and doctors after inspections uncovered unauthorised hoardings. One notice, issued on September 7 in Sector 27, cited violations of the Haryana Municipal Corporation Act, 1994, the Haryana Municipal Advertisement Byelaws, 2022, and the Haryana Prevention of Defacement of Property Act, 1989. Violations could invite penalties, forced removal, or criminal proceedings. Recipients were asked to respond within three days or face ex-parte action, including FIRs and recovery of damages. RWA members defended the advertisements as a response to civic gaps. A member said RWAs often fixed sewer covers, potholes, and cables using their own funds. Another argued boards were sometimes installed by outsiders, forcing RWAs to spend on removal. "Allowing a small number of advertisements gave RWAs resources to carry out repairs," he said. Others supported the commissioner's stance. Harish Nair, president of Sector 23 RWA, suggested higher monthly maintenance or emergency funds instead of unauthorised ads. Kundan Lal Sharma of Sector 21 agreed the objection was legally valid but pointed to "gaps in civic service delivery." Some RWAs sought policy clarity. "Advertising already generates revenue for MCG. Extending a transparent framework for RWAs could avoid conflict," said Puneet Pahwa of Sector 45 RWA. Residents also voiced frustration. "We don't have roads. Sewer is overflowing. PGs are running everywhere. Yet revenue collection by RWAs was taken as priority," said Chaitali Mandhotra of Ardee City....