In week, 2 foundation stones bearing Punjab minister’s name damaged in Malout

Over the past week, two foundation stones bearing the name of Punjab Cabinet minister and Malout MLA Dr Baljit Kaur have been damaged at different locations in the constituency.

The first incident was reported from Jandwala Charhat Singh village, where Kaur had laid the foundation stone for the construction of a street. However, within a few days, the stone was found damaged.

In another incident, a stone that was to be laid by the minister was damaged even before her visit in ward number 19. According to residents, a vacant plot was selected for the construction of a community hall in the name of Guru Ravidass. However, locals objected, alleging that the plaque carried the names of people from other wards, with none from ward number 19 included.

A video purportedly showing residents damaging the foundation stone later went viral on social media.

Reacting to the incidents, Kaur told The Tribune, “The foundation stone at Jandwala Charhat Singh village was damaged by miscreants. In Malout, however, the foundation stone was removed by our own party workers as it had been installed at the wrong place. I was yet to visit the site. The plaque is intact, and only its foundation has been removed.”

Prince Kumar, a resident of ward number 19, said, “Philanthropist Chaudhary Assa Ram had donated the land long ago. Some people recently came and installed a foundation stone there. We only want that a committee from ward number 19 should be formed for the proposed community hall.”