A delegation of Phagwara residents, led by Ambedkar Sena Punjab president Surinder Dhanda, met Superintendent of Police (SP) Madhvi Sharma on Monday to highlight a range of law and order and civic issues plaguing the city. The delegation urged the police administration to take timely and effective action to address these concerns.
Delegation Alleges Unresponsive Attitude of SP
Speaking to mediapersons after the meeting, Surinder Dhanda, along with Sukhwinder Singh Shergill and Engineer Pradeep Mall, alleged that the SP's approach towards the public was neither courteous nor responsive. They stated that if senior officers do not engage respectfully with citizens, it becomes difficult for the public to expect better conduct from subordinate staff.
Memorandum Highlights Drug Abuse, Thefts, and Street Fights
The delegation submitted a memorandum highlighting multiple civic and law-and-order issues, including a reported rise in drug abuse, thefts, and frequent street fights. They urged the police to take strict action to curb such activities and restore public confidence.
Fears Over Ambedkar Statue Vandalism in Mohalla Kaulsar
Members also raised concerns over tensions between two rival groups in Mohalla Kaulsar, expressing apprehension that the statue of Dr B.R. Ambedkar installed in a local park could be vandalised if preventive measures are not taken in time. The delegation warned that if any damage occurs to the statue, they would be compelled to launch a protest, holding the police administration and SP Madhvi Sharma responsible.
Closure of Mata Chintpurni Chowk Causes Commuter Hardship
Another key issue discussed was the closure of the crossing at Mata Chintpurni Chowk (Sugar Mill Chowk), which the delegation said has caused significant inconvenience to commuters. They noted that the disruption particularly affects residents travelling from the Nakodar side, as well as those from Satnampura, Bhagatpura, Hadiabad, and nearby villages, leading to hardship for daily commuters.
Delegation Warns of Protest if Concerns Not Addressed
The delegation further alleged that the response received during the meeting suggested that the concerns of residents and issues of public safety were not being treated with the seriousness they deserve. They warned of launching a protest if the Ambedkar statue is damaged, holding the police administration responsible.
Among those present at the meeting were Pushpinder Kaur, Parminder Bodh, Ram Murti Khera, Arun Sharma, Manoj Kumar, Mandeep Sonu, and other prominent citizens.
