MP Arora calls on Defence Minister Rajnath Singh; Discuss land surrounding Baddowal Cantonment

Ludhiana, July 25, 2023: MP Rajya Sabha from Ludhiana Sanjeev Arora who is presently in Delhi attending the ongoing Monsson Session of Rajya Sabha today met Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Giving this information, Arora said, “This was a courtesy call during which many issues related to Punjab were discussed in detail”, adding that the Defence Minister gave a very positive response and hoped that the meeting would prove to be a very beneficial for Punjab in the times to come. He added all the issued were discussed in a very cordial manner.

Arora also discussed about restrictions on construction around defence establishments under The Works of Defence Act 1903 in Baddowal area of Ludhiana. He also submitted a representation in this regard to Defence Minister stating that he would like to bring to his attention the plight of the farmers and landowners who are affected by restrictions in Baddowal area of Ludhiana.

He pointed out that restrictions are imposed on construction around defence establishments within a distance of 500 to 2000 yards as per the notification under Works of Defence Act 1903. Besides, there are restrictions on construction within a 1000-yard from the outer boundary. He also discussed about amendments in The Works of Defence Act 1903 to make it public-friendly vide GOI MOD letter dated May 18, 2011 and certain guidelines for allowing construction activities near the defence establishment.

Arora pointed out that a lot of farmers cannot use the land due to the existing restrictions. He said all these are genuine and urgent issues that affect the livelihood and welfare of thousands of people in the Baddowal Area. He requested Defence Minister to take swift action to resolve them and ensure justice for the affected populace.

Arora said the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh heard him very patiently and assured that the government is in the pipeline to make a nationwide policy to resolve these issues. He also said that decision would be taken very soon. The Defence Minister assured him that Baddowal area would also be covered in this national policy, said Arora.