Punjab BJP vice-president Subhash Sharma has escalated the controversy over alleged encroachment on Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB) land along the Nangal Hydel Channel by writing to Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, demanding immediate intervention and strict action against those responsible.
Addressing a press conference in Nangal on Monday, Sharma questioned why no FIR had been registered despite the alleged illegal removal of BBMB debris that had remained on the site for nearly 70 years. He alleged that the removal of debris, which had been lying along the Nangal Hydel Channel since the canal's construction around seven decades ago, amounted to theft of government property.
Allegations of Police Inaction
Sharma stated that BBMB officials had informed him that they had already submitted a police complaint against those responsible for removing the board's debris. Despite the complaint, the police have not registered a case, which he claimed clearly indicates that the encroachers are enjoying political shelter. He alleged that such an operation, involving heavy earth-moving machinery, could not have taken place without the active connivance of local authorities.
The BJP leader raised security concerns, emphasizing that the canal is a strategically important national asset. He warned that the use of heavy machinery in its vicinity posed a threat to the canal structure, stating, "Any unauthorised activity involving bulldozers and heavy machinery near it cannot be taken lightly. Those responsible for allowing such activities must also be held accountable."
Demands for Action
Sharma urged Khattar to direct the authorities concerned to protect BBMB land, register a theft case over the illegal removal of government debris, and take strict legal action against those involved. He also called for action against any revenue officials found to have connived with the alleged encroachers.
Responding to queries that some individuals had produced revenue records claiming ownership of the land, Sharma questioned, "If someone produces ownership papers for land on which the Bhakra project stands, does that mean they can dismantle the structure? How can revenue officials confer ownership of BBMB land without giving the organisation an opportunity to present its own documents?"
Political Significance
The issue has gained political significance after two alleged attempts were recently made to clear the decades-old debris from BBMB land adjoining the canal. While the BBMB reportedly sought police assistance and requested fresh demarcation of the disputed land, no criminal case has been registered so far, drawing criticism from the Opposition.
