Industrialists in Ludhiana's Focal Point Phase VI find themselves in a difficult position, claiming they are being approached for financial and material assistance in the construction of a police chowki near the Dhandari bridge. The facility is being built on land owned by the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA).
Industrialists Voice Concerns
Several business owners, speaking on condition of anonymity, said they cannot openly refuse such requests from the police. They argue that providing financial support for building a police facility is not their responsibility. Moreover, they allege the chowki is being constructed on land designated as a green belt.
One industrialist noted that the nearly two-acre green belt had been neglected for a long time. Now, the municipal corporation (MC) has installed a garbage compactor on the same site, and a police chowki is coming up on the other side. While there are no official records, officials verbally claim the land has been handed over to the MC. For the completion of the chowki, police personnel visit factories seeking help in the form of cash, bricks, cement, and other materials. The industrialist added, 'It is not our duty to construct a police chowki. However, several industries have contributed materials.'
Police Commissioner Denies Allegations
Commissioner of Police Swapan Sharma refuted the claims, stating that no financial assistance has been sought from industries. 'Why would anyone seek financial help to construct a police station? If anything of that sort has happened, bring it to our notice and we will look into it,' Sharma said.
Some Industrialists Support Project
Despite the controversy, several industrialists say they have 'willingly' extended support for the project, citing rising incidents of theft and snatching in the area. They believe that increased police presence and patrolling would enhance security in Focal Point.
MC Installs Compactor on Same Land
Regarding the installation of the compactor on the site, Vipal Malhotra from the MC Health Department said the land belongs to GLADA and has been handed over to the MC. Officials maintain that necessary permissions were obtained from GLADA for the compactor.
