Mohali-Senior Congress leader Balbir Singh Sidhu has strongly opposed the ongoing demolition drive in Mohali’s Phase-11, accusing the AAP government and its agencies of resorting to high-handed and unlawful action in the name of enforcement. He said that demolitions cannot be carried out by crushing the livelihood and dignity of residents, small shopkeepers and street vendors.
Balbir Singh Sidhu alleged that GMADA is forcibly carrying out demolitions without following due process of law and without issuing prior notices to affected residents and shopkeepers, calling the action illegal, arbitrary and unconstitutional. “This is nothing but bulldozer-style governance being imposed on hardworking people, ” he said.
Citing Supreme Court judgments, Sidhu said the apex court has consistently held that the right to livelihood is an integral part of Article 21 of the Constitution. Referring to landmark rulings including Olga Tellis vs Bombay Municipal Corporation, he stated that no eviction or demolition can be carried out without proper notice, hearing, due process and rehabilitation, and any action in violation of these principles is unlawful.
He said the widespread protests by residents in Phase-11 expose the failure and insensitivity of the AAP government, which is choosing coercion over consultation. “Court orders cannot be misused as an excuse for administrative arrogance. The Supreme Court itself has stressed that enforcement must be fair, humane and lawful, ” Sidhu asserted.
Taking a firm political stand, Balbir Singh Sidhu declared that he and the Congress party will not allow such illegal demolitions to take place. “We and the Congress won’t let the AAP government bulldoze the rights and livelihoods of the people of Mohali. We will stand with the residents on the streets, in courts and in every democratic forum, ” he said.
Balbir Singh Sidhu demanded that the AAP government immediately halt the demolition drive, rein in GMADA, and initiate dialogue with affected residents and vendors. He warned that if the government continues with selective and coercive action, the Congress will intensify its opposition both politically and legally.
“The Congress party stands firmly with the people. Law must protect citizens, not terrorise them, ” Balbir Singh Sidhu said, adding that accountability will be fixed for every injustice done under the AAP regime.