Unauthorised colonies major poll issue in Karnal

As the Karnal Municipal Corporation (KMC) elections approach, the issue of unauthorised colonies remains a key concern for residents. Despite repeated assurances over the past five years, many colonies and extensions of already regularised areas remain unapproved, leaving hundreds of families without basic civic amenities.

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According to official information, the KMC has submitted a proposal to the Haryana Urban Local Bodies headquarters for the regularisation of 47 colonies and nearly 50 patches in the city. While eight colonies were approved last year, the approval for the remaining ones is still pending, leading to growing frustration among residents.

For years, residents of unapproved colonies have hoped for regularisation, expecting much-needed infrastructure improvements such as proper roads, sewage systems and street lighting.

Fateh Singh Rana, president of the Balaji Nagar Residents' Welfare Society, highlighted their long struggle for recognition. “Our colony, spread over 40 acres and developed 15 years ago, is still awaiting regularisation. We have raised the issue on various platforms. Both former Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and current CM Nayab Singh Saini assured us of approval, but nothing has been done on the ground. We demand regularisation,” he said, adding that the area still lacks a proper sewage system and streetlights.

Bhupinder Singh, another resident, echoed similar concerns. “We have fulfilled all the requirements set by the government, yet no action has been taken. I purchased a plot in this colony, but basic facilities are still unavailable,” he said.

Residents of Yamuna Vihar also voiced their concern, urging the government to approve their colony’s regularisation.

Opposition leaders have seized on the issue, criticising the BJP government for failing to act.

Divyashu Budhiraja, state Youth Congress president and former Lok Sabha candidate from Karnal, accused the BJP of failing to deliver on its promises. “Earlier, former CM Khattar and now CM Nayab Singh Saini assured residents that unauthorised colonies would be regularised, but no action has been taken. The people of Karnal gave a strong mandate to the BJP, but the party has failed to deliver,” he said.

However, BJP leaders defended the government's stance, insisting that efforts were being made to address the issue.

“The government has set criteria for regularising colonies. Those that meet the requirements have already been regularised and others will also be approved soon if they fall under norms,” said Jagmohan Anand, MLA of Karnal.