Mohali: The Haryana Shehri Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) has told the Punjab and Haryana high court that its ongoing drive to remove encroachments outside residential properties in Panchkula is being carried out in line with court directions and due legal procedure.In an affidavit, HSVP estate officer Surender Lather said action is taken only after notices are served and violators are given time to remove unauthorised structures. Photographs of properties allegedly encroaching on govt land have also been submitted.“We first issue notices asking violators to clear encroachments. Demolition follows only on non-compliance. Photographic evidence has been placed on record ahead of the June 19 hearing,” Lather said.HSVP said the drive was initiated following HC directions on a plea by a residents’ welfare association alleging inaction against encroachments on govt land.The affidavit comes amid a contempt petition by some residents challenging the drive. The HC has directed senior HSVP and district town planner (DTP) officials to remain present in court.Petitioners have alleged non-compliance with earlier court directions, including those related to demolition and removal of green belts in front of houses, and argued that notices continue to be issued despite pending proceedings.The court has also allowed the impleadment of HSVP chief administrator Dr Chander Shekhar Khare and estate officer Surender Lather, noting their presence is necessary for adjudication.It directed a competent HSVP officer and a DTP official, fully briefed on the case and actions proposed under April 16 and June 2, 2026 orders, to be present on the next hearing on June 19.
