24 illegal structures removed from Harappan site in Hisar

Tribune News Service

Hisar, May 23

The district administration on Wednesday removed nearly 24 illegal structures from the Harappan site in Rakhigarhi village of the district.

The Archeological Survey of India (ASI) had issued notices to villagers to remove 201 structures, including houses, cattle enclosures etc, in January this year. The action was initiated on the orders of the Punjab and Haryana High Court.

Hansi SDM Rajiv Ahlawat, who led the anti-encroachment drive, said only cattle enclosures and abandoned structures were removed. “We have not demolished any residential house. Further action will be initiated as per the directions of the HC,” he said.

A heavy police force led by Hansi DSP Joginder Rathi was deployed in the village to maintain law and order. He said that none of the villagers resisted the move. “We appreciate the cooperation extended by the villagers,” he said.

Sources said that a girl tried to block the way of a JCB machine, but her family members took her away.

Rajender Singh, in charge, ASI, Hisar, said that the drive was peaceful. “We have issued notices for removal of 201 illegal structures and the entire land would be evacuated in a phased manner,” he said.

An official said that a compliance report of the drive would be submitted to the High Court.