It is no secret that unplanned anti-encroachment operation has rendered many homeless and jobless
ISLAMABAD: The Capital development authority (CDA), on 15th December allegedly ransacked shops of poor vendors at Quaid-e-Azam University in Islamabad, without sending them prior notice; Violating its very own CDA ordinance of 1960 which clearly mentions that the CDA cannot vandalise any property under the pretext of illegal encroachment, without sending a prior notice. The demolition of shops which took place on 15th December shattered the dreams of Maqsoom Hussain as well. Maqsoom became the recent victim and had lost his dream and hope when the CDA authorities razed his photo-copy shop. Maqsoom was the sole bread-winner for his family. The incident not only worsened the financial situation of Maqsoom and his family but inflicted uncertainties and fears amongst the rest of the people as well. It is no secret that unplanned anti-encroachment operation has rendered many homeless and jobless. The current anti-encroachment drive in the country overlooks the issues of the middle and lower classes of our society. Pragmatically, the government should realise the gravity of the issue as there is a dire need to reflect while formulating policies. I urge the government to look into the matter on humanitarian grounds and compensate all those affected by the government-backed project and alternative employment opportunities and shelters be provided on an immediate basis.
M Shahjahan Memon
Published in The Express Tribune, January 18th, 2020.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
