The construction of the proposed Mini Secretariat in the Haryana Urban Development Authority, Pinjore urban complex, aimed at consolidating offices for public convenience, and the construction of the proposed Judicial Complex to serve the common man, are both delayed due to administrative and governmental negligence.
Vijay Bansal Advocate, State President of Shivalik Vikas Manch, raised this issue by filing Public Interest Litigation No. 61/2023 in the Punjab Haryana High Court. The Division Bench, comprising Honorable Acting Chief Justice GS Sandhawalia and Justice Lupita Banerjee, sought replies from the State Government, with a deadline set for the Haryana Shahari Vikas Pradhikaran (HSVP) to respond within five days. Additionally, a conditional cost of Rs 1000 was imposed, and the hearing was scheduled for August 14, 2024, with advocates Dipanshu Bansal and Sajal Bansal representing Vijay Bansal.
Despite sending a legal notice earlier to relevant authorities, including the Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary of the Haryana Government, as well as Executive Engineers, no action was taken. As a result, Vijay Bansal filed a PIL. During the court proceedings, Vijay Bansal’s lawyers highlighted the lack of facilities at the current Judicial Complex in Kalka, which operates from temporary premises. There is a pressing need for a permanent facility to address the issues faced by both advocates and the general public. The temporary complex lacks essential amenities such as Lawyer’s Chambers, Litigant Hall, Bar Room, Library, and adequate parking space.
Information obtained through RTI reveals that land has been allotted for the Judicial Complex in Pinjore Urban Complex Sector 28, with funds approved and land transfer completed. However, delays persist due to bureaucratic processes, including the non-issuance of the letter of Proceed with Work. Similarly, the construction of the Mini Secretariat faces hurdles, as administrative approval and tender details are unavailable.
Efforts are underway to expedite these projects and address the pressing needs of the community, as highlighted in the ongoing legal proceedings.