A resident of Ludhiana has lodged a complaint with the Department of Local Bodies, accusing BCM Arya Model Senior Secondary School in Shastri Nagar of constructing a multi-storey building in violation of the Punjab Municipal Corporation Building Bylaws. The complaint, submitted on July 1 to the Chief Vigilance Officer, Rohit Sabharwal, alleges that the school is undertaking construction with non-compoundable violations in an area designated as Zone D of the Municipal Corporation (MC).
Allegations of Building Plan and Zoning Violations
Sabharwal claims that the construction is being carried out despite the knowledge of MC building branch officials about the illegalities. He further alleges that a portion of the structure is being raised in a no-construction zone. According to the complaint, no building plan has been approved for the construction at the school located in Shastri Nagar.
The complainant asserts that a challan was issued under Sections 269 and 270 of the Punjab Municipal Corporation Act, 1976, but no subsequent action has been taken to halt or remove the alleged violations. Sabharwal referred to a 2013 order by the Punjab and Haryana High Court, which mandates that civic authorities must take prompt action against unauthorised constructions and ensure that construction does not continue after violations are detected.
Demand for Vigilance Inquiry and Official Response
In his complaint, Sabharwal has called for a vigilance inquiry into the matter, an immediate stop to the construction, and an explanation from MC officials regarding their alleged failure to act. The complaint specifically requests the Vigilance Department to examine whether there have been any lapses on the part of officials responsible for enforcing building regulations.
MC Joint Commissioner Tapan Bhanot stated, “I have directed the officials concerned to look into the matter and take necessary action.” This indicates that the municipal authorities are aware of the allegations and have initiated a review process.
Context of Building Bylaw Enforcement in Punjab
The Punjab Municipal Corporation Building Bylaws govern construction activities within municipal corporation areas, including zoning regulations and building plan approvals. Violations such as those alleged in this case can lead to penalties, demolition orders, or legal action. The 2013 High Court order cited by Sabharwal underscores the judiciary’s expectation that local bodies act swiftly to prevent unauthorised construction, which is a persistent issue in many Indian cities.
The complaint highlights broader concerns about compliance with building regulations in Ludhiana, particularly in educational institutions where safety and structural integrity are paramount. The outcome of the vigilance inquiry could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
