Demolition drive triggers spat between shopkeepers, officials

A heated argument broke out between shopkeepers and officials of the Amritsar Improvement Trust (AIT) today during an anti-encroachment drive at the Truck Stand Scheme market area of Jahajgarh. The market, dominated by traders dealing in old car parts, has been heavily encroached upon, with shopkeepers occupying roads and footpaths, causing inconvenience to pedestrians and traffic alike.

According to the AIT officials, when their team reached the site to remove illegal structures and goods, shopkeepers resisted aggressively. The officials alleged that the traders not only used abusive language but also attempted to attack them with iron rods.

Recently, the AIT had initiated steps to clear these encroachments, which were being opposed by local traders. Local MLA Jeevanjyot Kaur and AIT Chairman Karamjit Singh Rintu had reportedly given time to shopkeepers until Saturday to remove their goods voluntarily. However, when the deadline passed, the AIT team moved in on Monday morning to clear the area.

A large number of shopkeepers gathered to protest the action, alleging that the AIT officials were demanding bribes. “We will not tolerate such high-handedness. Around 300 shopkeepers and their workers are being robbed of their livelihoods. The AIT officials ask for monthly bribe (Maheena) from us,” claimed sunny Oberoi, a member of the Old Motor Parts Association.

On the other hand, the AIT officials refuted these allegations. “The association’s president Santokh Singh had assured us that goods lying on roads and footpaths would be cleared by Saturday. Despite waiting, nothing happened. Roads are choked. Encroachment removal is our duty, and we will not stop. The administration cannot function properly due to this illegal occupation,” an AIT official stated.

The officials further added that heavy encroachment in the Jahajgarh market leads to frequent traffic jams, blocks the movement of vehicles, and hampers public works like rainwater drainage and garbage clearance. The AIT advised traders to negotiate with the Chairman if they needed more time, but stressed that roads and footpaths must be cleared.

Amritsar