Company Bagh Park in Jalandhar turns haven for gamblers
Avneet Kaur
Jalandhar, February 21
In a blatant display of disregard for public space, Company Bagh Park, situated within the Municipal Corporation (MC) office premises here, has transformed into a bustling hub for gamblers.
Despite its proximity to the MC Commissioner’s office and a police check-post, unchecked gambling activities continue at the park, disrupting the tranquillity of visitors and residents living nearby.
No meaningful action: Residents
Adding to the dismay, it was revealed that the park’s single-entry point, conveniently located in front of the MC office, is not quite monitored, facilitating the influx of gamblers without any checks. Despite almost all MC officials being aware of the situation, no meaningful action has been taken to address the issue, say residents.
Matter to be investigated: Cop
Joint Commissioner of Police Sandeep Sharma assured that the matter would be investigated and appropriate measures taken to restore order at the Company Bagh Park.
After having received complaints about the condition of the park and rampant gambling, Jalandhar Tribune team visited the park for two consecutive days. The team discovered that the once serene public park now resembled a full-fledged gambling den.
Groups of four or five individuals could be seen scattered across the park, engrossed in card games, with money at stake and refreshments in hand.
Park’s condition deteriorated
I used to take my five-year-old daughter to the park every evening. I’ve stopped bringing her here for the past several months. The condition of the park has deteriorated significantly, with non-functional fountains and broken rides. Moreover, the pervasive presence of men playing cards all around is simply unacceptable. — Kavita Joshi, a resident
Residents, dismayed by the situation, shared their concerns. Kavita Joshi, who resides in a locality close to the park, lamented the lack of intervention from the civic authorities, emphasising that public parks are no place for gambling activities, regardless of their nature.
“I used to take my five-year-old daughter to the park every evening. I’ve stopped bringing her here for the past several months. The condition of the park has deteriorated significantly, with non-functional fountains and broken rides. Moreover, the pervasive presence of men playing cards all around is simply unacceptable,” she added.
Another resident, Muskan Mehra, highlighted the adverse impact on park accessibility, particularly for young girls and families who now feel apprehensive about visiting the place due to the pervasive gambling environment.
Adding to the dismay, it was revealed that the park’s single-entry point, conveniently located in front of the MC office, is not quite monitored, facilitating the influx of gamblers without any checks. Despite almost all MC officials being aware of the situation, no meaningful action has been taken to address the issue, say residents.
An anonymous source within the MC disclosed that among the gamblers are senior citizens and daily wage workers, including taxi drivers from nearby stands, who converge on the park throughout the day.
Joint Commissioner of Police Sandeep Sharma assured that the matter would be investigated and appropriate measures taken to restore order at the Company Bagh Park.