Scheduled Castes panel issues notice to Patiala DC over Sanauri Adda demolition drive

The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) today issued a notice to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) following the recent demolition drive in Sanauri Adda area. The commission has also opened an investigation and decided to inquire into the matter following complaints by local residents.

The area residents had alleged that the drive was carried selectively, targeting “a selective few majority of them from the SC community” while sparing those with political links.

In a notice issued to the DC, the commission said they have received a complaint from SC residents of Sanauri Adda area alleging police harassment and threats including illegal detention.

“You are herby requested to submit report and action taken on the allegations and complaints within 15 days,” read the excerpts from the orders dates October 11.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Mahila Morcha Punjab president Jai Inder Kaur has strongly condemned the ongoing demolition drive at Sanauri Adda, terming it an “open act of oppression.”

Addressing the media, Jai Inder Kaur alleged that an MLA was colluding with local authorities to forcibly displace residents in order to construct a commercial showroom on the site.

“I have always stood firmly with the people of Patiala. This kind of injustice and administrative bullying will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” she asserted.

Kaur further informed that she has also written to the Commission and detailed how SC families were being targeted and that local police were allegedly acting under political pressure.

The leader said the Commission’s official communication has clearly warned that if the Patiala administration fails to comply or delays submission of the report, disciplinary action will be initiated against the concerned officials as well. “I am confident that the Commission will ensure justice for the affected families,” she said.

Additionally, Kaur informed that a petition is also being filed in the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking judicial intervention to ensure strict punishment for the guilty and justice for the innocent residents whose homes have been demolished.