High Court Demands Accountability: Illegal Constructions Threaten Golden Temple's Grandeur

The revered Golden Temple in Amritsar, a beacon of peace and spirituality, finds itself under an unprecedented challenge. The Punjab and Haryana High Court has unequivocally stepped in, issuing stern notices to the Punjab government and the Amritsar Municipal Corporation, demanding immediate answers regarding a surge of unchecked illegal constructions in the sacred precincts surrounding the iconic shrine.

This critical intervention stems from a compelling Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by advocate H.C.

Arora. The petition starkly highlights gross violations of established building norms and height restrictions within the crucial 'regulated zone' – an area extending 275 meters from the periphery of the Golden Temple. This zone is not merely a geographical demarcation; it is a vital buffer safeguarding the temple's sanctity, structural integrity, and the panoramic view that pilgrims cherish.

The PIL meticulously details how, despite clear prohibitions on construction beyond specific heights, numerous structures have brazenly flouted these regulations.

More alarmingly, the petitioner has leveled serious accusations against the Municipal Corporation authorities, alleging a systemic failure to curb these illicit activities. The petition suggests potential collusion with violators, driven by monetary incentives, thereby undermining the rule of law and endangering a UNESCO heritage site.

This is not the first time the High Court has addressed such pressing concerns.

The PIL strategically referenced previous directives issued by other benches of the court, which had called for stringent action against illegal constructions in the vicinity of Amritsar's precious heritage buildings. These past orders underscore a persistent struggle to enforce urban planning regulations and protect cultural landmarks from encroachment.

Adding another layer of concern to the broader issue of heritage preservation, the petition also brought to light the controversial demolition of the historical Jallianwala Bagh entrance.

While separate, this incident resonates with the underlying theme of heritage neglect and the alarming ease with which historical structures can be altered or destroyed for commercial gain. The court's ongoing scrutiny is a powerful reminder that the preservation of such sites is paramount.

A division bench, led by acting chief justice Ritu Bahri and justice Nidhi Gupta, is overseeing this critical matter.

With the spiritual heart of Punjab hanging in the balance, the court's decisive stance signals a zero-tolerance approach to environmental and architectural degradation around the Golden Temple. Further proceedings are keenly awaited, as the legal battle to protect this invaluable spiritual and cultural heritage continues.