Faridabad's Khori assn leaders to go on fast at Jantar Mantar today

Tribune News Service

Faridabad, July 11

In protest against the impending demolition of a colony at Khori village in the Aravalli area, the Khori Awas Sangharsh Samiti has announced fast at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi from tomorrow.

The samiti is demanding the rehabilitation of all residents prior to the demolition drive.

In its order dated June 7, the Supreme Court had ordered the demolition of encroachments in the colony built on forestland within a six-week period.

Mohammed Salim, a member of the six-member samiti, said the decision to launch fast at Jantar Mantar had been taken in view of the state government and the district administration’s failure to initiate steps for their rehabilitation.

He said the Chief Minister had given an assurance in this regard a couple of weeks ago, but nothing had been done so far.

All six members of the samiti would go on fast from Monday to pressurise the government to honour its announcement and provide relief to thousands of residents of the colony.

Nirmal Gorana, a social activist and samiti member, said with the round-the-clock deployment of cops in the colony, the local administration and the police had created fear among people.

Gorana said none of the resident had dismantled his or her house. The removal of rubble of old demolition in one part of the colony was being showcased as the migration of residents, he added.

He alleged that some elements had been trying to politicise the issue. Gorana demanded the restoration of water and power supply till the affected residents are not rehabiliatated.