Construction of Satlok Ashram triggers tension in Rohtak village

Sunit Dhawan

Tribune News Service

Singhpura (Rohtak), Jan 19

Tension prevails in Singhpura village of Rohtak district over the construction of Rampal’s Satlok Ashram in violation of building norms.

Sources said the construction site was located in a restricted zone and the ashram was being erected without obtaining the requisite permission. The local residents have opposed the construction of the ashram.

Parmod Kumar, sarpanch of the village, and other residents maintain the construction was illegal and they had conveyed their objection to the local authorities.

A demolition squad led by the District Town Planner (DTP) Rajkeerti partially razed the unauthorised construction yesterday. However, the team had to return following clash between Rampal’s supporters and villagers.

Panchayat members of eight villages, including Singhpura, submitted a memorandum to the district administration today seeking immediate demolition of the structure. They have given four-day ultimatum to the district authorities to act.

On the other hand, Rajbir, who is involved in the construction of the ashram, said the court had stayed the demolition of the structure till January 30.

Rajkeerti said they would move the court to get the stay vacated.

SP Pankaj Nain said the situation was under control and adequate police force had been provided to accompany the demolition squad as and when required.