Encroachment bid foiled on court premises days after inauguration

Days after the establishment of a Sub-Divisional Court in Gharaunda, a case of encroachment on government land within the court premises has come to light, prompting swift administrative intervention. Gharaunda Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Rajesh Soni wrote to Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Gharaunda, directing immediate removal of the unauthorised structures.

According to sources, the Public Works Department (Buildings and Roads) has not yet officially handed over the building, nor has a plan been finalised for setting up advocate chambers. Despite this, some advocates allegedly began erecting temporary sheds and were reportedly preparing for permanent construction. Acting on the information, the administration halted the activity and police removed construction materials from the site.

“This is a serious issue. As soon as it came to my notice that some people had occupied government land without permission, I instructed the police to take necessary action to stop the encroachment,” said SDM Rajesh Soni.

“Illegal activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Anyone who wishes to set up a shed must seek proper permission in accordance with government policies,” he added.

Sources stated that this is the first time a court has been established under the Gharaunda SDM division and a judge was recently appointed. However, before the premises could be officially transferred, some advocates began setting up makeshift chambers without clearance. In the process, a few trees were reportedly cut down, adding environmental violations to the list of concerns.

The administration has initiated efforts to secure the premises. DSP Gharaunda Manoj Kumar confirmed that construction materials had been cleared and advocates instructed not to build without approval.

Karnal Bar Association president Advocate Surjeet Mandhan acknowledged the move was made hastily, though not without justification.

Haryana Tribune