In a dramatic turn of events, leaders from opposition parties in Punjab have demanded immediate action against the ruling Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) MLA Gurpreet Gogi, who is under scrutiny for allegedly unsealing 10 shops sealed by the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation. The shops in question were closed due to violations of building bylaws as part of the Municipal Corporation's ongoing drive against illegal structures.
Several days ago, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation took stringent measures by sealing multiple shops and commercial establishments in the Model Town extension area. The move was in response to reported breaches of building bylaws, including the establishment of commercial buildings in residential areas and the construction of shops without approved building plans.
In the aftermath of the sealing, disgruntled shopkeepers organized a protest to express their grievances. Amidst the unrest, AAP MLA Gogi, representing Ludhiana West, reportedly took matters into his own hands by breaking the seals affixed by the civic body. Gogi defended his actions, arguing that the sealing lacked adherence to proper procedures, specifically pointing out the absence of the mandated “three-day notice”.
“I will bring the whole case to the notice of the Chief Minister's office. These shops have been operating here for more than 10 years,” Gogi asserted, while accusing the Municipal Corporation officials of misusing their powers.
Gogi's defiance has ignited a political firestorm, with opposition leaders seizing the opportunity to criticize the AAP Government in Punjab.
BJP’s Ludhiana district unit president Rajnish Dhiman lambasted the Bhagwant Mann Government, alleging a pattern of AAP leaders considering themselves “above the law” since assuming power. Dhiman called for stringent action against Gurpreet Gogi, emphasizing the need to uphold the rule of law.
Congress MP Ravneet Singh Bittu echoed these sentiments, labeling the act of breaking the seals as a criminal offense. Bittu demanded a thorough inquiry into the MLA's conduct.
Former municipal councilor Mamta Ashu, the wife of Congress leader Bharat Bhushan Ashu, joined the chorus of disapproval. She criticized Gogi's perceived high-handedness and emphasized that nobody, regardless of political affiliation, should be above the law.
Municipal Commissioner Sandeep Rishi said that a comprehensive report has been requested from the building branch regarding the shops opened by Gogi, and further actions will be determined based on the findings of the report.
A Municipal Corporation official said that the crackdown was initiated against shops for violating building bylaws, including establishing commercial buildings in residential areas and constructing shops without approved building plans.