Punjab Chief Secretary Reports Demolition Drives and Coordination Challenges in Land Denotification
In a significant affidavit submitted to the Punjab and Haryana High Court, Punjab Chief Secretary KAP Sinha has detailed extensive demolition activities and highlighted a critical lack of coordination in implementing central government norms for land denotification. Over the past six-and-a-half months, authorities have conducted 35 demolition drives across Mohali district, resulting in the demolition of approximately 450 unauthorised structures.
Demolition Drives and Legal Actions in Mohali
The affidavit reveals that these drives, executed by the Regulatory Branch and the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA), targeted illegal constructions in various areas. In total, 193 violators were identified, with 17 FIRs registered against 59 individuals. Additionally, demolition notices have been issued for 25 structures within the New Chandigarh Master Plan area, underscoring the ongoing enforcement efforts.
Chief Secretary Sinha stated: "In the last six-and-a-half months, 35 demolition drives have been undertaken by the Regulatory Branch, GMADA, and around 450 unauthorised structures have been demolished in different areas of the district." This statement emphasises the scale of the crackdown on illegal constructions.
Addressing Coordination Gaps in Land Denotification
The affidavit points to a significant "lack of coordination" among multiple departments involved in implementing conditions set by the Government of India while denotifying land in Mohali district. To remedy this, directions have been issued for each department to appoint nodal officers, including Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs), police officials, and engineers. These officers will ensure timely responses to requests and complaints, with fortnightly meetings under GMADA to facilitate coordinated action.
Furthermore, the affidavit clarifies regulatory responsibilities: land notified under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA), 1900, will be managed by the Department of Forests and Wildlife Preservation, while de-listed and agricultural land outside local bodies' jurisdiction will be regulated by GMADA to enforce central government conditions.
Legal Proceedings and Administrative Updates
The High Court Bench, assisted by senior advocate DS Patwalia and counsel Gauravjit S Patwalia, received updates on administrative measures. The Chief Secretary reported that revenue records have been updated within 24 hours, with the Department of Revenue completing entries for de-listed areas. Directions have also been issued for demarcating remaining PLPA versus de-listed areas, aiming to streamline land management processes.
This affidavit follows a recent High Court admonishment of GMADA for failing to provide a comprehensive overview of unauthorised constructions in Mohali district, including Siswan village. The submission underscores ongoing judicial scrutiny and the state's efforts to address regulatory challenges in land use and development.
