Ajay Sharma
Rajouri, November 19: Despite standing instructions and norms about the construction of residential and commercial buildings, illegal construction spree going on rampantly in Panchayat Nala and other areas under Tehsil Sunderbani, with many structures being constructed without mandatory permissions.
According to sources, this blatant disregard for regulations is causing violation and mocking at the rules in addition to significant loss to the exchequer.
“As per official guidelines, any individual intending to build a house or a commercial establishment must obtain prior permission,” said sources, adding that however, in many villages of Nala panchayat, such rules are being flagrantly ignored.
Local residents alleged that the administration, including the Tehsildar and other officials, has turned a blind eye to these violations in connivance.
Talking to Northlines, one of the key revenue officials in the area admitted that while some actions are being taken, local influences and a lack of enforcement hinder progress.
“Lambadaar and watchmen are hesitant to report violations because they share ties with the locals. This complicates our efforts,” the official stated, adding that the absence of stringent measures has emboldened influential individuals, who continue unauthorized construction unabated.
Official said that many locals have followed the proper procedures, but a significant number bypass the system, leading to a loss of crores in revenue.
Locals have urged the Deputy Commissioner Rajouri to order a probe in the matter in retrospect.
They believed that only firm action against negligent officials and employees will deter such violations.
Locals have also called for accountability from the Tehsildar, Patwaris, Lambadaar, and Chowkidars, who are responsible for overseeing land and property matters at the local level.
They have also demanded intervention of Financial Commissioner and Divisional Commissioner Jammu to take action against complicit employees of the revenue department.
Despite repeated attempts, the Tehsildar Sunderbani could not be contacted for comments. However, Patwaris have assured that actions will be taken, but they face challenges in monitoring every construction due to limited resources and local pressures.
