Naya Gaon civic body seals first ‘illegal’ building

For the first time since its formation, the Naya Gaon Municipal Council has sealed an illegal building. Until now, the Council has largely limited itself to token actions against unauthorised constructions.

Written by Jasbir Malhi

Mohali | September 13, 2025 10:37 AM IST

2 min read

Employees of Naya Gaon Municipal Council sealing an illegal building. (Express photo)

The move came after Satyendra Sharma filed a petition in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, alleging that a five-storey illegal building adjacent to his property caused structural damage to his premises.

The Municipal Council admitted before the court that the building was unauthorised.

On September 4, it filed an affidavit, committing to sealing the property. When the action was not carried out that day, the Council’s team, accompanied by police, sealed the premises on Friday.

According to the Council, the owner, Gurpreet Singh, had neither obtained an approved building plan nor adhered to the Punjab Municipal Building by-laws. Notices under the Punjab Municipal Act, 1911 had been served earlier but ignored, forcing the Council to act.

Residents hailed the step as a “landmark action”, noting rampant illegal constructions across Naya Gaon that usually go unchecked despite court orders. They expressed hope that this case will deter others from flouting regulations.

Locals pointed out that the notices were issued in the name of Gurpreet Singh, a government employee, while the property is reportedly registered under another family member. With 10-12 air conditioners installed, concerns have also been raised about whether the building’s electricity load is within permissible limits. Citizens now await to see if the electricity department will act against violations, just as the Municipal Council has.

Municipal Council president Balwinder Kaur, who is also the Councillor of Ward No. 5, Nayagaon EO Ravneet Singh and ADC Anmol Singh Dhaliwal did not respond to repeated calls.

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