Kapurthala (Gurpreet Singh): Tensions flared in Punjab’s Kapurthala district on Monday after a portion of Congress legislator Sukhpal Singh Khaira’s house in Ramgarh village, Bholath, was pulled down by officials from the Block Development and Panchayat Office.
The action, carried out during the day, targeted what authorities described as an unauthorised structure at the front of the property. Machinery was deployed to dismantle part of the entrance area abutting the road, with officials citing encroachment concerns.
Khaira, however, strongly objected to the move and broadcast the demolition live on social media platforms. Calling the step politically motivated, he argued that the entrance gate was within legal limits and did not violate any land-use norms. He announced that he would seek immediate judicial intervention to halt further proceedings. Supporters gathered outside the residence as the operation continued, raising slogans and accusing the administration of vendetta politics.
The development prompted a swift reaction from senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa, who criticised the state government over the episode. In a public message, Bajwa alleged misuse of authority and warned that those in power would eventually be answerable for their decisions.
While the state government has yet to issue a comprehensive response, the incident has intensified the ongoing political rivalry between the Congress and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab. Legal proceedings are expected to follow as the matter heads toward the courts.
