Controversy shrouds Diwali fest

Ravi Chandel

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Tribune News Service

Bathinda, October 13

The move to provide land without taking any fee for the four-day Diwali festival to the organisers by PUDA today triggered a controversy with residents accusing the authorities of favouritism.

People raised objections over being charged entry fee when the land had been provided free.

They also raised voice against the partial blocking of the 100-feet road as it was causing inconvenience to commuters.

Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal, who visited the festival, refused to comment over the issue of organising the event.

He said, “I have come here as a guest. Moreover, I am not the right person to answer on this issue.”

Jaijeet Johal, brother-in-law of Manpreet Singh Badal, on being asked about the same question, gave an assurance that they would pay the legal amount to PUDA.

Municipal Commissioner Sanyam Aggarwal confirmed that the event organisers hadn’t taken permission from them.

Anil Thaman, event organiser, said the road had been blocked partially so that normal public movement was least affected.

“The unique show is providing an opportunity to the local people to showcase their talent through their work,” he said.

On being questioned whether the district administration and the civic authorities had levied any charges for organising the function, Thaman refused to comment.

Visitors in the evening showed least interest in the mela. The eateries didn’t see many customers.

The sale was average on the first day. The prime attractions for the show included Punjabi singers Satwinder Satti, Sukhjinder Sukh, Sherry Mann and Balkar Sidhu.

Jaswinder Singh, a local resident, said “It’s strange that despite not having paid a penny to the MC, the organisers are charging us money.”

Khushpreet Kaur, another city resident, said, “The mela is a live example of nepotism. It shows how political leaders misuse their power for their own benefits.”