The Ludhiana police filed an FIR after the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) demolished a purportedly illegal police post near a national highway. The FIR did not name any NHAI officials but noted that the accused arrived with a JCB machine, demolished the structure, and allegedly stole furniture.
The incident occurred near Eldeco Estates, a posh locality close to the Jalandhar Bypass. The police post in question had been a point of contention among local residents, who opposed its establishment, arguing that it would obstruct access to their colony. Despite this opposition, the police commenced construction on March 22. According to the FIR, unidentified individuals arrived at the Eldeco police post with a JCB and demolished the structure. The FIR also stated that the accused took away a table, four chairs, and an air cooler from the site. The police have charged the unidentified individuals under sections 305, 324(3), and 331(3) of the BNS Act.
NHAI officials have expressed their displeasure with the FIR, taking the matter up with senior authorities. An NHAI representative stated that several notices had been issued to the local police, instructing them to remove the illegal structure at their own expense. After receiving no response, the NHAI team proceeded to dismantle the structure on July 17. The police, in a previous communication, had claimed that they had already vacated the post and had no further involvement with the structure.
Inspector-in-Charge of the Salem Tabri Police Station, stated that while the structure was deemed illegal by the NHAI, the removal process should not have involved the alleged theft of items. He noted that the furniture, printers, and even clothes of police personnel were taken from the site. The Inspector also mentioned that the PCR patrolling teams used the structure as a halt point and that the NHAI should have informed the police before taking action.
The NHAI’s decision to demolish the structure stems from ongoing efforts to clear encroachments on national highways. However, the lack of communication between the NHAI and local police has led to this incident, highlighting the need for better coordination between government agencies. As the investigation progresses, the controversy over the demolition and alleged theft continues to unfold. This incident underscores the complex dynamics between local authorities and national agencies, particularly in matters involving public infrastructure and enforcement actions.
