Residents, Lawyers, and Local Leaders Urge Government to Reconsider Site Selection
Dera Bassi, March 7: The location of the Judicial Complex and Tehsil Complex in a residential area continues to create major difficulties for the people of Dera Bassi. Despite the relocation of the SDM office, congestion and accessibility issues persist. Though land for the new court complex has been registered near Jawaharpur village, and crores of rupees have already been transferred, many locals and officials are demanding a reassessment of the site for long-term public convenience. Several lawyers, village panchayats, social organizations, and community leaders have submitted a memorandum to MP Dharamvir Singh Gandhi, requesting that the government reconsider the site and explore better alternatives.
According to Advocate Anmol Singh and Dera Bassi Sarpanch Union President Balihar Singh Balli, the main market is already overcrowded, with no designated parking facilities. This has negatively impacted businesses, causing financial losses to shopkeepers. They suggested that instead of building the Judicial Complex in the current congested area, the government should sell the non-essential sections of the existing Tehsil Complex at market rates and use the funds to construct a modern Judicial Complex and Mini Secretariat near the National Highway. They warned that the current land for the court complex is on a link road, which could lead to future congestion problems. Instead, a strategic long-term location on the main road would ensure better public access and smoother operations for at least 60-70 years.
Petitioners have suggested consolidating key government offices into a Mini Secretariat near the highway. This would allow the BDPO office to be shifted into the new Mini Secretariat, freeing up land for a 100-bed hospital in the civil hospital premises. This move would also allow the construction of a long-awaited maternity and child care facility. Additionally, the DSP office, currently located in Mubarikpur village, could be relocated to the Mini Secretariat, making police services more accessible to the public.
Currently, several government offices are operating in rented buildings, increasing unnecessary expenses. If these offices are shifted to a centralized Mini Secretariat, the government would save rental costs, improve efficiency in public services, and reduce travel time and inconvenience for citizens. Congress leader Deepinder Singh Dhillon was also present during the submission of the memorandum. MP Dharamvir Singh Gandhi assured the public that he would take their concerns to the government for further review.
