Amritsar North- Drug menace overshadows welfare works

PK Jaiswar

On the face of it, the political leadership in the constituency can claim of developmental works but residents are grappling with law and order and drug-related problems.

Amritsar North constituency comprises the Civil Lines area, including posh localities of Ranjit Avenue, Green Avenue, Basant Avenue and localities on Majitha and Batala Road. The area roads are in somewhat better condition as compared to others. But when one visits localities like Faizpura, Karampura and Mustafabad, one gets to know how big the problem of drugs and crime is. Snatchers move in the area without any fear as the police authorities have failed to nail criminal elements.

Jagtar Singh, a resident of Karampura, said a large number of people could be seen gambling and consuming drugs in the ground located on the backside of the mental hospital while the police looked the other way because of political patronage to nefarious elements.

Several parts of Mustafabad area paint a picture of neglect as the residents are waiting for pucca roads for long. Sewerage lines were laid but the dug up roads were left potholed.

Box

Amritsar North

Total voters: 1,82,650: Male – 95,488, Female – 87,152, third gender – 10

Won – Sunil Datti – Congress -59,212

Lost – Anil Joshi – BJP – 44,976

Past trend: In 2017, Congress candidate and former city mayor Sunil Datti defeated two-time MLA and former Cabinet Minister Anil Joshi by 14,236 votes. New equations will arise as Joshi has joined the SAD after being expelled from the BJP.

Demands: Tackling crime

Better drainage system

Ending drug menace

Road repair works