In a significant development that sparked local protests, the Ajmer Development Authority (ADA) on Thursday used a JCB crane to dismantle 40 commercial kiosks situated on the busy Shrinagar Road. The action was taken despite strong opposition from the kiosk owners and local residents, leading to a political confrontation.
Clash Over Expired Leases and Livelihoods
The roots of the conflict trace back to the year 2000 when the then Congress government led by Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot allotted these kiosks to unemployed youth on a 25-year lease. According to an ADA official, the lease period for these structures has now expired. Notices were reportedly served to the owners a month ago, asking them to vacate the premises.
Congress leader Dharmendra Rathore strongly condemned the demolition drive. He claimed that the kiosk owners had approached him, after which he, along with Congress city president Dr. Rajkumar Jaipal, met the ADA commissioner. "The commissioner assured that no action would be taken. But on Thursday, ADA snatched away the employment of more than 40 families," Rathore stated, accusing the BJP-led state government of destroying self-employment opportunities.
Road Widening Project Cited as Key Reason
The ADA has defended its action by citing urban planning and traffic congestion issues. A senior official explained that Shrinagar Road, which leads to key areas like Madar and CRPF installations, is heavily congested. The authority plans to convert it into a four-lane road to ease traffic flow, and the kiosks were identified as a major hurdle in this project.
These kiosks housed various small-scale businesses that served the local community, including photocopy services and two-wheeler repair shops. The demolition was carried out under the supervision of ADA Deputy Commissioner Anil Choudhary, who was present at the site. Adequate police force was also deployed to manage the situation and control any potential protests.
Official Stand and Aftermath
Deputy Commissioner Anil Choudhary reiterated the official stance, stating that the occupants were given sufficient time to comply. "Even after serving notices, they did not vacate their kiosks and therefore we were forced to remove them," Choudhary said. The event highlights the ongoing tension between urban development initiatives and the protection of livelihoods established over decades.
The demolition has left over 40 families uncertain about their future, turning the issue into a focal point for local political discourse concerning development, employment, and the rights of small business owners.
