Mohali Mayor Alleges Selective Targeting in Anti-Encroachment Operations
Mohali Mayor Amarjit Singh "Jeeti" Sidhu on Thursday launched a scathing critique against the local bureaucracy, accusing them of biased and high-handed conduct during the ongoing anti-encroachment drive. Sidhu asserted that the demolition actions were being implemented selectively across various sectors, raising serious questions about fairness and procedural integrity.
Claims of Political Bias and Procedural Lapses
While expressing full respect for the Punjab & Haryana High Court's directives and readiness to comply, Sidhu condemned the execution as "unjust" and indicative of "clear pick-and-choose" tactics. He detailed specific grievances:
- The drive commenced from Phase 4 instead of starting from Phase 6 or Phase 11.
- Operations shifted erratically—from Phase 11 to Phase 10, then to Phase 7 upon encountering resistance.
- Areas represented by Congress councillors faced excessive demolition, whereas zones aligned with the ruling party saw only token actions.
Sidhu further highlighted severe procedural violations, noting that 90-day notices were not issued, awareness camps were omitted, and no loudspeaker announcements preceded demolitions. He emphasized the human toll, mentioning elderly residents aged 85-90 and families absent during demolitions, warning that such actions "leave homes vulnerable and are equivalent to inviting theft."
Infrastructure Relief for Green Enclave
Amid the controversy, Sidhu announced a significant development for Green Enclave: approval for a 500 KLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) valued at approximately Rs 4 crore. This project aims to permanently resolve sewage issues in the locality, with work slated to commence shortly.
Financial Hurdles and Pending Dues
The mayor also addressed financial constraints, revealing that the Mohali Municipal Corporation (MC) is awaiting Rs 270 crore from Gmada for development initiatives. With an anticipated revenue generation of Rs 25 crore by March, Sidhu urged the local MLA to facilitate the release of pending Gmada dues to ensure smooth progression of development activities.
