ANO Correspondent
Kulgam, April 25: A blatant violation of land regulations is unfolding in broad daylight under the nose of the Municipal Council (MC) Kulgam, raising serious concerns about law enforcement and the role of local authorities.
Illegal construction is currently underway near the main road at Chawalgam and near college. Despite this, the administration remains silent.
Although a formal notice was issued to halt construction on a parcel of land previously declared state land by the then Tehsildar—and handed over to MC Kulgam two years ago—unauthorized building activity continues unabated. Eyewitnesses and locals report that construction machinery remains active on-site, while the MC Kulgam administration appears to turn a blind eye.
“This is a clear case of contempt for the official notice served by the Municipal Council. We expected swift action, but instead, the administration remains silent,” said a resident on the condition of anonymity.
According to official records, the land in question was identified as state land and flagged for action in earlier proceedings. However, the current developments point to a troubling lapse in enforcement and potential administrative inaction—or worse, complicity.
Sources allege that despite multiple complaints and clear documentation of the violation, no concrete steps have been taken by the enforcement wing of MC Kulgam to stop or demolish the illegal structure.
“Is the Ribbon Development Act (RD Act) only meant for the poor? If not, why are MC Kulgam and R&B Kulgam failing to act against wealthy individuals violating the law?” questioned a local resident.
Civic activists are now demanding immediate intervention from higher authorities and a thorough investigation into how such blatant violations are being allowed to continue—even after a formal notice was issued.
“Either the notice was merely symbolic, or the enforcement team is asleep. Either way, this undermines the law and encourages more such encroachments,” said a local legal expert.
Construction of the building near the main road at Chawalgam, Kulgam continues, even though the R&B Department issued a violation notice six months ago. However, no action has been taken on the ground, raising further questions about the accountability of the Kulgam administration.
Residents are urging the Deputy Commissioner and Divisional Commissioner to intervene and ensure accountability, fearing that if left unchecked, this case could set a dangerous precedent for future land encroachments in the region.
