In a significant development for the residents of Nangal, Punjab Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains has taken a firm stand on Saturday, vowing to resolve the town's long-standing land conflict with the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB). The minister declared the BBMB's claim over prime land in the area as "illegal" and a direct threat to the livelihoods of the local population.
A Minister's Personal Connection and a Public Promise
Expressing a deep personal connection to the town, Minister Bains described Nangal as one of the most "beautiful towns" in both Punjab and the country. The core of the dispute revolves around the BBMB's claim to land in the bustling Kilan area market and Pahari market, which the minister stated forms the economic lifeline of the city.
Through a video message, Bains shared that his recent meetings with elderly residents and shopkeepers moved him profoundly. He highlighted their decades-long struggle lived under constant fear and harassment. "They live with the dread that their roofs and livelihoods could be snatched away at any moment," he said, emphasizing that this situation was completely unacceptable. The urgency for a solution has been heightened by a recent high court order concerning a shop in the area.
A Son's Vow and a Plan of Action
Addressing the people of Nangal directly, Minister Bains made an emotional commitment: "You have placed your duty upon me; I am your son, the responsibility for every single roof and every single shop in Nangal is mine." To translate this promise into action, he outlined a concrete plan.
A high-powered committee, which will include the Advocate General of Punjab, will be formed to meticulously examine all land records. The committee's mandate will be to lead the effort to restore the residents' rights. Furthermore, Minister Bains announced that he will personally lead a delegation of Nangal residents to meet Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann next week to present their case.
Asserting State Rights and Ending Insecurity
Minister Bains left no room for ambiguity regarding the ownership of the land, firmly stating that it belongs to the Punjab government. He accused the BBMB of harassing the residents over the years. The minister's declared goal is to use all available legal means to restore the land rights to the people and permanently end their insecurity. He has declared the resolution of the Nangal land dispute as his topmost priority.
This strong intervention from a senior state minister has brought renewed hope to the residents of Nangal, who have been entangled in this complex legal battle for generations. The coming weeks, with the formation of the committee and the planned meeting with the Chief Minister, will be crucial in determining the path forward for this picturesque town.
