Stop eviction of villagers, SC panel directs Punjab

Chandigarh, May 18 (IANS) Taking note of the Punjab government's decision for issuing eviction orders against Scheduled Caste residents in Ludhiana district, who are living there since independence, the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) Chairman Vijay Sampla on Wednesday issued a notice and asked the state to reply in 15 days.

Besides, the NCSC also asked the government to stop the eviction drive and maintain status quo.

In a complaint to the NCSC, residents of Bhama Kalan village said they have possession of 200 acres in the village since 1947.

"Since 1947, we are utilising the land for agricultural and residential purposes. We have electricity and water connection, besides other government identification documents on these addressees.

"But now, the ruling Aam Aadmi Party government is asking us to immediately vacate the land. This is not justified as the children have to attend the local school. We can't vacate the land and shift our elderly people, especially those who are unwell. We request the NCSC to please help us and protect our land," the villagers rued.

However, invoking relevant clause Section (7) of the rules of procedures of the commission, the NCSC asked the state Chief Secretary, the Director General of Police, the Deputy Commissioner of Ludhiana and the SSP to maintain the status quo until the matter is pending.

The NCSC warned the officers that no Scheduled Caste should be forced to vacate the land and if found otherwise, the commission will take necessary action against the erring officers as per the Prevention of Atrocities Act of 1989, as amended from time to time.