Jalandhar, October 13: The long-running dispute over unauthorized construction at the District Congress Bhawan in Jalandhar has once again come into focus, with an old court order directing the demolition of 12 shops at the premises remaining central to the case.
The matter dates back several years and concerns 12 shops constructed within the Congress Bhawan premises. Municipal Corporation Jalandhar had earlier declared the constructions unauthorized and initiated proceedings after questions were raised over whether the required approvals and sanctioned building plans existed.
On September 19, 2016, the court of the Additional District Judge dismissed an appeal challenging the Municipal Corporation’s action. The court directed the District Congress Committee to remove the unauthorized construction at its own cost within 15 days.
The order further stated that if the committee failed to act within the given period, Municipal Corporation Jalandhar would get another 15 days to demolish the constructions and recover the demolition expenses from the concerned party.
The case had originally gained momentum after questions were raised over 12 shops constructed at the Congress Bhawan premises. Records considered during the proceedings indicated that the required approvals for the construction could not be established before the court.
According to the earlier court findings, payment of house tax or the age of the construction by itself did not make an unauthorized structure legal. The court also referred to the Municipal Corporation’s technical assessment while dealing with the legality of the shops.
Despite the demolition directions issued in 2016, action remained pending for a prolonged period. The issue subsequently remained tied up in further legal proceedings, including a contempt petition over the non-implementation of the demolition order.
The dispute relates specifically to the 12 shops and unauthorized portions identified in the proceedings. It should not be interpreted as a court direction to demolish the entire Congress Bhawan building unless a fresh competent authority or court order specifically states so.
With the old demolition order once again under discussion, attention is now on Municipal Corporation Jalandhar and the further legal process. Any physical demolition action will depend on the latest operative court directions, pending proceedings and administrative action.
Further details regarding the date of any proposed demolition drive or notices issued to occupants should be considered confirmed only after an official order from the Municipal Corporation or the competent court.
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