Rohtak traders clash with officials during anti-encroachment drive

Municipal Corporation (MC) officials faced resistance from a few shopkeepers during an anti-encroachment drive carried out in major markets of Rohtak on Wednesday. Some traders engaged in heated arguments with the officials during the operation.

This was the second such drive in three days, following a similar campaign held in other key markets on Monday. The ongoing effort aims to clear roads and footpaths of encroachments to ensure smooth traffic flow and pedestrian movement.

“The anti-encroachment campaign was conducted at Pratap Chowk, Railway Road, Approach Road, Agrasen Chowk and Bhiwani Stand today. A grocery shop owner obstructed the drive when officials asked him to move his items inside. When he refused to comply, the team had no choice but to take action against him. A police complaint has also been lodged after he continued to resist,” said Vipin Narwal, spokesperson of the MC.

He added that while many shopkeepers cooperated and voluntarily removed their encroachments, action had to be taken against those who ignored repeated requests. During the drive, items belonging to 25 shops were seized, including flex boards, goods placed on footpaths, counters, dummies and large utensils that were obstructing movement, Narwal said.

However, one shopkeeper accused officials of misbehaviour and high-handedness, alleging that their goods were removed forcibly. “No one has the right to misbehave or manhandle shopkeepers during the drive. I will approach higher authorities against such actions,” the shopkeeper said.

Meanwhile, Anand Kumar Sharma, Commissioner, MC, stated that officials always appeal to traders to remove encroachments voluntarily before taking action.

“Action is taken only when shopkeepers do not cooperate. Making Rohtak encroachment-free remains a top priority for the MC and the campaign will continue in the coming days in accordance with the law. No one will be allowed to encroach upon public spaces,” Sharma added.