CHANDIGARH: The Chandigarh administration continued its anti-encroachment efforts on Wednesday, demolishing 10 residential structures in Manimajra. The land, approximately 38 acres, was acquired for public use in 1998, with compensation paid at that time. However, nearly 1.5 acres have been encroached upon over the years with the erection of unauthorized buildings.
“After following due legal procedures, including issuing formal notices and allowing sufficient time for voluntary vacating, the administration carried out the demolitions. A petition from the encroachers in the high court has been dismissed,” stated Nishant Kumar Yadav, deputy commissioner and estate officer.
A significant police presence was maintained during the operation, conducted under the supervision of the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (East) in collaboration with local police authorities.
Meanwhile, residents affected by the demolitions voiced their strong opposition. Raghubir Singh, whose home was among those torn down, remarked, “The administration is mistaken in claiming we lived here illegally. We’ve resided in these houses for 70 years and possess all necessary documentation. If we were illegal occupants, why did the municipal corporation provide us with water and electricity?”
Another resident, Jasbir Kaur, a widow, lamented, “Where will I go now? The administration issues orders but leaves us homeless. The government should offer us alternative land and compensation. When we legally purchased and built our homes, no one stopped us.”
