Mohali Mayor Takes Strong Stand Against Housing Society Discrimination
Mayor Amarjit Singh Jeeti Sidhu launched a sharp criticism against the current government and its officials on Tuesday. He accused them of practicing what he called "open discrimination" against numerous housing societies in Mohali. The mayor expressed his frustration during a press conference, highlighting what he sees as unfair treatment based on political affiliations.
Development Works Stalled for Dozens of Societies
Sidhu revealed that approximately 35 to 40 housing societies in Mohali have been completely deprived of development works. This situation persists despite clear provisions under Section 82/3 of the Municipal Corporation Act that specifically allow for such projects to move forward. The mayor pointed out the stark contrast between different political administrations.
"During the previous Congress government," Sidhu explained, "former minister Balbir Singh Sidhu successfully facilitated development projects worth crores of rupees in these same societies using the exact same provision." He emphasized that since the Aam Aadmi Party assumed power, not a single rupee has been allocated for development in these communities.
Allegations of Political Favoritism
The mayor presented what he considers clear evidence of bias. "Nearly Rs 1-crore worth of works have received approval for the society of an AAP councillor," Sidhu stated. "Meanwhile, even smaller projects worth Rs 20 lakh continue to face rejection for societies located in wards represented by Congress councillors, particularly in Sector 68."
He made an even more serious allegation regarding Sector 68. "The file related to development works in that sector has mysteriously gone missing," Sidhu claimed. This disappearance has further complicated efforts to secure necessary improvements for residents.
Residents Pay Taxes But Receive Unequal Treatment
Sidhu raised fundamental questions about fairness and equity. "Why are residents of housing societies, who regularly and diligently pay their property taxes, being treated so unequally?" he asked. The mayor emphasized that these citizens fulfill their civic responsibilities but do not receive corresponding benefits.
He detailed how repeated written resolutions were submitted to the Local Government Department, only to face rejection each time. "On one occasion," Sidhu alleged, "officials even threatened that if we sent the resolution again, the person forwarding it would face a charge sheet."
Specific Examples Highlight the Disparity
The mayor provided concrete instances to illustrate his concerns. He noted that a resolution for Rishi Apartments, which has connections to AAP councillor Sukhdev Patwari, received prompt approval and a work order was issued. However, a resolution for Pancham Society in councillor Vineet Malik's ward, submitted simultaneously, remains completely pending without any progress.
"Residents of Mohali's societies are not living abroad," Sidhu asserted firmly. "They deserve equal civic amenities just like everyone else in our city. They have every right to expect basic infrastructure and development."
Delegation Meets with Government Officials
Following the press conference, a delegation of councillors led by Mayor Sidhu met with Kulwant Singh, the director of the Local Government Department. The secretary was unavailable due to another meeting. According to Sidhu, the director listened carefully to their concerns and provided assurances.
"The director promised to forward our matter to the concerned officials," Sidhu reported. "He also assured us that necessary steps would be taken to ensure development works finally begin in these housing societies."
A Clear Warning Against Discrimination
Mayor Sidhu clarified that his stance is not personal or partisan. "This is not against any individual or political party," he stated. "But discrimination against Mohali's housing societies will not be tolerated at any cost. We cannot accept this unequal treatment of our citizens."
The mayor issued a clear warning about potential next steps. "If required," he declared, "I will not hesitate to take further measures to safeguard the interests of residents. We will explore every available option to ensure justice and fairness for all housing society members in Mohali."
