- Decision follows boundary changes; relief measures introduced for farmers along Satluj and Ghaggar river belts
Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
The Punjab Cabinet on Friday approved changes to the reservation roster in six districts Mohali, Patiala, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Malerkotla and Sangrur following recent alterations in their administrative boundaries. The move aims to ensure proper implementation of reservation policies in local bodies after jurisdictional adjustments.
Addressing a press conference after the Cabinet meeting, Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that the decision was taken under provisions of the Punjab Panchayati Raj Act, 1994. He explained that whenever there is a change of more than 10 percent in the boundaries of a district, tehsil, or block, the reservation roster can be revised accordingly.
Cheema added that the updated roster will apply to Zila Parishad members and Panchayat Samiti chairpersons, making it essential to redefine reservation and rotation norms. He also noted that objections, if any, can be submitted within 10 days.
Responding to a question on initiating a vigilance probe against former Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi, Cheema stated that anyone found guilty would face action. On a separate query regarding Raghav Chadha, he remarked that people do not appreciate those who “turn their backs and run away.”
The Cabinet also approved desilting work in flood-prone regions along the Satluj and Ghaggar rivers, allowing farmers to carry out the process on their own land after obtaining necessary permissions.
Cheema said that Punjab suffered significant losses during recent floods, and the government has identified vulnerable areas including Harsha Bela (Ropar), Mandala Tajowal, Badhakali Raun, Ruknewala, Khairabala, and Derabassi.
Highlighting the need for preventive measures, he said desilting in these areas would help improve water flow and reduce the risk of future flooding, providing relief to farmers affected by river overflow.