Row over Pash-Hans Raj complex takeover in Jalandhar

A controversy has erupted in Talwandi Salem, the native village of revolutionary Punjabi poet Avtar Singh Pash.

Representatives of people’s organisations, progressive writers, artists, literary bodies and democratic groups gathered at the Desh Bhagat Yadgar Hall in Jalandhar today and alleged that attempt were made to take over the Pash-Hans Raj Memorial Complex, while panchayat members said the land had already belonged to panchayat.

The meeting was jointly convened by the Pash Memorial International Trust and the Shaheedi Yadgar Committee, Nakodar. It was presided over by intellectual and writer Dr Swarajbir. Dr Swarajbir said efforts would also be made to secure a meeting with the Punjab Chief Minister, where the delegation would raise the issue of protecting the memorial.

At the meeting, the organisations announced that Pash’s birth anniversary would be observed at his native village, Talwandi Salem, on September 9 at 11 am.

The organisations had earlier submitted a written complaint to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Nakodar, and met officials, seeking action over the alleged attempt to take over the premises.

Speaking to The Tribune, SDM Simranjit Singh said the land belonged to the village panchayat. “They had approached me. The issue is now almost resolved,” he said.