Two detained after clash during anti-encroachment drive in Jalandhar

A Municipal Corporation drive to remove two allegedly illegal kiosks in Bhagat Singh Colony, Jalandhar, turned violent after some people pelted stones at the civic team and local residents, triggering a clash on Thursday.

The incident occurred when the Municipal Corporation team began removing the structures using a JCB machine. The situation escalated as members of two groups confronted each other, with stone pelting and physical scuffles reported from the spot.

The police from Police Station Number 1 reached the area following the incident and brought the situation under control. The police detained two people, including a woman. One of those detained is reportedly the owner of a kiosk.

Videos of the incident show people from both sides engaging in a clash. A woman can be seen allegedly throwing stones, while some people are also seen assaulting a migrant man. Residents of the area also allegedly retaliated with stone pelting.

Those opposing the demolition alleged that the Municipal Corporation team had started removing the kiosks without serving any prior notice. However, residents claimed they had lodged complaints against the occupants over alleged illegal encroachments, following which the authorities initiated action.

SHO Ajmer Lal of Police Station Number 1 said the Municipal Corporation team had demolished two kiosks when some people began protesting and resorted to stone pelting. He confirmed that the police had detained two people, including a woman.

The SHO said statements of the people concerned would be recorded before further legal action was taken. Despite the opposition, the Municipal Corporation team continued its drive and removed both kiosks.