Trapped at home, Sirsa family awaits justice amid land dispute
In Alipur Titu Khera village, Sirsa, a poor labourer, Jaswant, and his family have been trapped in their home for over two years due to a blocked access path. Their neighbour, Satnam Singh, a retired army man, allegedly built an illegal wall blocking their only exit. Despite court orders to clear the path, no action has been taken, leaving the family in dire straits.
Jaswant and his wife, Saroj, have lived in the village for 25 years. Two years ago, Satnam constructed a wall that obstructed the narrow street leading to their home. As a result, the family relies on a wooden ladder connected to their neighbour Karnail Singh’s roof to leave their house.
The situation is particularly devastating for Jaswant’s two disabled sons, aged 13 and 15, who are bedridden and unable to speak or walk. Jaswant must carry them down the ladder for medical care. His 70-year-old mother, unable to navigate the ladder, remains trapped indoors, unable to access her medication or pension.
“My children are insulted and threatened by Satnam’s family. They are trying to take over my land,” alleges Jaswant, adding that Satnam’s family has filed false assault charges against them.
In April 2023, a Sirsa court ordered the wall’s removal within five days, but no action was taken. Another court directive in September 2024 instructed police to clear the path while ownership disputes continued. However, when police visited in December 2024, led by SHO Sandeep Kumar, they left after half an hour without taking action. Jaswant said, “When we tried to speak to the SHO, he scolded us and told us to leave.”
The family attended a public grievance camp in December 2024, where the Deputy Commissioner promised to intervene. Jaswant said, “We’ve gone to the police, the village panchayat, and even the SP, but nothing happens. The harassment continues.”
Satnam Singh has denied the allegations, claiming Jaswant is illegally occupying his land. Satnam’s son, Gurdeep, said, “The police inspected the wall and found no wrongdoing.” Balbir Kaur, Satnam’s wife, said, “We built the wall on our property.”
SHO Sandeep Kumar explained, “The court orders are unclear about where the path should be opened. Since the street is now part of Satnam’s property, we cannot act without further clarification from the court.” SP Vikrant Bhushan assured, “The matter has come to my notice, and I will ensure the court’s orders are implemented.”
This dispute extends beyond Jaswant’s family. Other neighbours, including Karnail Singh and Pala Singh, allege that Satnam has encroached on their land. Karnail, armed with official ownership documents, is also fighting to reclaim his property.
The ongoing stalemate leaves Jaswant’s family trapped, with no resolution in sight.
