Shimla civic staff, shopkeepers clash during anti-encroachment drive

Yog Raj Sharma

The North News

Shimla, November 13

A complaint has been filed with police after municipal staff engaged in a scuffle with shopkeepers during an anti-encroachment drive on Shimla’s Mall Road, officials said. Shimla Mayor Surinder Chauhan said civic workers were removing encroachments as part of routine action when several shopkeepers resisted and allegedly misbehaved with the team. He said unlawful encroachments on Mall Road and in the Lower Bazaar area make it difficult for people to walk, adding that the Municipal Corporation conducts such operations regularly.

Chauhan stressed that misbehaviour with municipal staff would not be tolerated and warned of strict action against those involved. He also noted that the High Court has issued clear directions to remove encroachments, and any obstruction of this process amounts to contempt of court. “The municipal corporation acts strictly as per the law. Misbehaviour with staff is unacceptable, and legal action will be taken against the offenders,” he said.