Jammu, May 6, 2026 : A major confrontation has emerged in Jammu over the ongoing anti-encroachment drive, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly opposing demolition actions carried out by the Jammu Development Authority (JDA). The party has demanded an immediate halt to the drive, calling for regularisation of existing structures and strict action against officials allegedly responsible for administrative lapses.
The controversy follows a demolition operation conducted on May 4 along the Jammu-Samba Ring Road belt, where more than 15 structures built without permission were razed to enforce planning norms. The situation escalated in the Bisnah area when BJP MLA Rajeev Kumar Bhagat, accompanied by local residents, physically intervened and stood in front of bulldozers to stop the demolition of a three-storey building. Several BJP leaders later joined the protest.
A delegation of BJP leaders, including Rajeev Kumar Bhagat, Garu Ram Bhagat, Surinder Bhagat, and former MLA Chander Prakash Ganga, met JDA Vice Chairman Rupesh Kumar on May 5. During the meeting, they sought suspension of ongoing demolitions and urged authorities to allow registration and regularisation of already constructed buildings.
Addressing the media, Rajeev Kumar Bhagat alleged serious lapses within JDA’s enforcement wing. He accused lower-level staff of misleading the public, claiming that constructions were allowed to proceed unchecked—often allegedly after taking money—only to be demolished later when they exceeded permissible limits. He also questioned the timing of the operation, highlighting that demolitions were carried out as early as 4 a.m., raising concerns about procedural fairness.
The MLA further cited the plight of a local farmer whose land was partially acquired for the Ring Road project, leaving him with limited space where he had begun construction. Bhagat demanded strict action, including suspension of enforcement officials, and called for a probe by the Anti-Corruption Bureau into alleged irregularities.
Garu Ram Bhagat described the meeting with JDA authorities as “positive,” claiming assurances were given that existing structures would not face immediate demolition. He added that residents may soon be allowed to apply online for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and resume construction after due approvals.
BJP MLA Surinder Bhagat reiterated that while the party supports lawful enforcement, it opposes what it termed as harassment of ordinary citizens. “We will not support illegal activity, but targeting poor people in the name of law is unacceptable,” he stated.
The legislators also pointed to a lack of coordination between departments, particularly between JDA and Revenue authorities. They argued that conflicting land-use classifications have created confusion among residents and contributed to the rise of unauthorized constructions. To address this, they proposed a joint meeting with district authorities to streamline land records, clarify jurisdiction, and improve transparency in granting permissions.
Meanwhile, JDA officials defended the drive, asserting that all demolitions were carried out after issuing due notices. They maintained that the action was necessary to enforce building regulations and ensure planned urban development along the rapidly expanding Ring Road corridor.
The issue continues to stir political and public debate, highlighting the delicate balance between enforcing urban planning laws and addressing the concerns of affected residents.
