Mohali :
Former Deputy Mayor Kuljit Singh Bedi has launched a sharp attack on the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, accusing it of failing to fulfill its promise of implementing the long-pending Need-Based Policy despite being in power for more than four and a half years.
Addressing media persons, Bedi said the AAP had assured residents before the elections that the Need-Based Policy would be implemented immediately after coming to power. However, according to him, no meaningful progress has been made on the issue, leaving small house owners, booth owners and bay shop owners disappointed.
Bedi criticized the recent statement made by the concerned minister, describing it as misleading and disconnected from the ground realities of Mohali. He questioned whether the response had been drafted without proper understanding of the issue or whether the minister himself lacked awareness of the problems being faced by local residents.
He further objected to reports suggesting that the Need-Based Policy may be implemented only after the formation of a new government. Calling the stance irresponsible, Bedi said the current government already has the authority to take action and should have fulfilled its commitment during its own tenure.
The former Deputy Mayor also raised concerns over the government’s suggestion that booth and bay shop owners should increase the height of their structures. He argued that such a move would require extensive demolition and reconstruction work, forcing businesses to remain shut for months and imposing a significant financial burden on owners.
“Instead of providing practical solutions and relief, the government is offering assurances that are difficult to implement on the ground,” Bedi said.
Demanding immediate action, he urged the government to accept the legitimate demands of booth and bay shop owners and implement the Need-Based Policy without further delay. He also claimed that if Congress comes to power, it would permit booth expansions and ensure that bay shops receive all required infrastructure and service connections.
Bedi noted that several other issues affecting Mohali residents remain unresolved. He cited the example of MIG and Super MIG flats in Sector 70, where residents are still waiting for basic facilities such as lifts and improved infrastructure.
Appealing for unity, he called upon booth owners, bay shop owners and all residents affected by the Need-Based Policy to come together and raise their voice collectively. He also urged opposition parties and social organizations to support the cause so that long-pending demands can be addressed during the current government’s tenure.
According to Bedi, the issue is not limited to commercial property owners alone. Residents of four-marla and six-marla houses, as well as owners of small flats, are also facing difficulties. Many families who expanded their homes to meet growing needs are now receiving notices from authorities.
“This is a matter that affects thousands of families across Mohali. The government must honor its promises and provide the relief that people have been waiting for,” Bedi said.
