Edison Township Council is facing scrutiny over a proposed resolution to authorize a contract with Fieldturf USA Inc. for the supply and installation of turf on the cricket pitches at Woodrow Wilson Middle School. This proposal, amounting to $68,234.00, has raised concerns due to the ongoing investigation into the construction of an adult cricket field at the school and once again raises questions about Mayor Joshi refusing to disclose his campaign donors.
The investigation, launched in May 2022, involved a grand jury issuing subpoenas to the Edison Board of Education, focusing on individuals connected to Edison Democratic Party. The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office is looking into a $100,000 cricket pitch built on behalf of a private, semi-professional league with political connections.
A key figure in the investigation is Vijay Diddekunta, also known as Vijay Dy, a leader of the Edison Cricketing Fraternity and organizer of several cricket leagues in the township according to an NJ Globe article who obtained copies of the subpoena. Diddekunta’s alleged ties to Harshi Construction LLC, which reportedly received a no-bid contract to construct the pitch, have added fuel to the fire as some council members believe both have made financial contributions to Mayor Sam Joshi’s campaign fund.
This once again raises the question of why Mayor Joshi has failed to file his quarterly reports with the New Jersey Law Enforcement Election Commission as required by state statute. According to NJELEC records the Election Fund of Mayor Joshi, has not filed the required reports for the last four quarters. The last report on record was filed on 4/16/24 for Quarter 2, 2023 and remains four quarters behind.
“I am not aware of any plans for the cricket pitch at Woodrow Wilson Middle School,” stated Board of Education President Biral Patel “The Board of Education has not been involved in any discussions or decisions regarding this matter.” Several other BOE members also stated they were unaware of any reason why the town would be putting in a cricket pitch without their knowledge.
The council’s decision to move forward with this proposal amidst the ongoing investigation without informing the Board of Education raises concerns about the motive, potential conflicts of interest and the prioritization of political interests over the needs of the community. The resolution is on the agenda to be discussed at the 7/22 meeting.
