Photo Source: ANI
Activist writes to DC Sangrur against proposed Sports stadium in peacock habitat
Urges to consider alternate location for the proposed sports stadium in Longowal
Babushahi Bureau
Sangrur, December 25, 2023: Jasinder Sekhon, environmental activist from Sangrur, has written to Deputy Commisioner Jitendra Jorwal opposing the proposal for the construction of Sports Stadium in Longowal in an area that is reportedly largest peakcock habitat in the region.
In the letter, Jasinder Sekhon urged DC to consider alternate location for the proposed sports stadium in Longowal
Letter written by Activist Jasinder Sekhon to DC
Mr. Jitendra Jorwal, IAS,
Deputy Commissioner,
Sangrur.
Dear Mr. Jorwal,
I am writing to follow up on my representation dated 7th August 2023 concerning the endangerment of the habitat of our National Bird, the Peacock, in Longowal, District Sangrur. This concern was raised in light of the orders passed by the Honourable Chief Justice’s Bench of the Punjab & Haryana High Court in our CM-11240, CWP-18565-2023 on 2nd July 2023.
The High Court’s order explicitly states: “Learned Deputy Advocate General, Punjab, on instructions from Ms. Navreet Kaur Sekhon, SDM, Sangrur submits that as on date, neither the work has been undertaken nor any tree has been felled. He further submits that approvals accorded as regards the said purpose have already elapsed, and the entire process shall start de Novo. He submits that if the applicants - petitioners move a representation as regards their concerns/grievances, the authorities shall consider and decide the same, including the issue of an alternate site for construction of the stadium, before proceeding further with the matter.”
Subsequent to this order, I submitted a Right to Information (RTI) request to the SDM, Sangrur office on 14th August 2023, seeking copies of the approvals for the proposed stadium at Longowal. The response indicated that such information was not available, raising serious questions about the veracity of the statements made to the Honourable High Court.
Mr. Jorwal, I am deeply concerned to learn from reliable sources that the process for constructing the stadium at the same location is being reconsidered. This is particularly alarming, given that the area in question is a significant habitat for the Peacock. This habitat, comprising a rich ecosystem with hundreds of trees and a water body, is not only a natural treasure of Punjab but also one of the largest breeding grounds for Peacocks in the region.
It is essential to recall that under the Wildlife Conservation Act, 1972, Schedule 1, the Peacock, our National Bird since 1963, enjoys a protected status. The law mandates rigorous protection for species listed under this schedule, imposing stringent penalties for violations.
As the Deputy Commissioner of Sangrur, you hold a position of responsibility and custodianship over our natural heritage. The decision to construct a stadium in an area that is a crucial habitat for our National Bird not only contravenes the Wildlife Conservation Act, 1972 but also disregards the sanctity of the High Court’s directives, as well as the undertaking furnished by SDM Sangrur, on your behalf, before the said Hon'ble Court.
I urge you to consider alternate locations for the proposed sports stadium in Longowal, thus safeguarding the habitat of the Peacock. Proceeding with the current proposed site would not only be a violation of your undertaking to the High Court but also constitute a grave offence under the Wildlife Conservation Act.1972.
This communication serves as a courteous reminder of these obligations.
I anticipate a prompt and considerate response to this representation, as well as an update on the status of my previous communication, which was in adherence to the High Court's directions.
Yours sincerely,
Jasinder Sekhon .