Chandigarh Residents Unite to Fight Demolition Notices with All-Party Committee
In a significant move driven by widespread anxiety, residents of Housing Board units in Sector 41, Chandigarh, have established an all-party committee to seek a permanent resolution to the issuance of numerous demolition notices. This decision emerged from a public meeting held on Sunday, which drew thousands of concerned residents fearful of potential eviction and demolition actions.
Formation of the Cross-Party Coalition
The newly formed committee includes representatives from major political parties, demonstrating a rare unity across party lines. Members named in the committee are Harmohinder Lucky, Satinder Malhotra, Vijay Pal, Gurpreet Singh Gabi, Hardeep Singh Butela, Jasmanpreet, Nirmal Dutt, and Ajit Singh. This collaborative effort aims to coordinate actions and jointly address the grievances of affected residents, transcending political affiliations to focus on common humanitarian concerns.
Resident Concerns and Allegations
During the gathering, Congress councillor Gurpreet Singh Gabi highlighted that the issue extends beyond legal technicalities, deeply impacting human sensitivities. He criticized the Chandigarh Housing Board for issuing demolition notices without providing concrete alternative arrangements, which has caused immense hardship for ordinary people. Residents alleged that these notices were served abruptly and without adequate time, leading to panic and confusion among families who have lived in the area for years. Many expressed how the sudden threat of eviction has disrupted their lives and livelihoods.
Committee's Action Plan and Housing Board Directives
Gurpreet Singh Gabi assured residents that the all-party committee will soon meet with the administration and relevant departments to seek relief. The committee plans to work towards getting the notices reviewed and will advocate for a more humane approach from the authorities. Meanwhile, the Chandigarh Housing Board has issued directives to allottees in sectors 41-A, 41-D, 45-A, 45-C, 45-D, 46, 47-C, 39-B, and 29-8, urging them to remove violations and encroachments on a priority basis to avoid cohesive action. The Board has also advised these residents to undertake restoration of structural components at their own level as soon as possible.
This development underscores the growing tension between urban development policies and the welfare of long-term residents, with the all-party committee serving as a pivotal force in advocating for fair and compassionate solutions.
