Shakargarh property dispute triggers alleged police violence claim

SHAKARGARH:

A property dispute in Gumtala village of Shakargarh has sparked allegations of police violence, with a family claiming that six people, including women and children, were injured during an alleged raid by Saddar police. Police, however, have strongly denied the accusations, saying their action was taken to prevent an unlawful attempt to take possession of property without legal procedure.

According to the affected family members - Nadeem, Ghulam Mustafa, Yaseen and their mother Parveen Begum - they had purchased a seven-marla house from Safia Begum for Rs 1.05 million. They said a court decision had already been issued in their favour regarding ownership of the property, yet they were still being pressured to vacate the house.

Nadeem alleged that late at night police personnel, along with influential individuals, arrived at their residence and subjected family members, including women and children, to physical violence. He claimed that six people were injured in the incident and that children have since been traumatized and unable to sleep due to fear.

Ghulam Mustafa further alleged that a false case was registered against them after the incident to pressure the family into submission. He said medical examinations of the injured women had been conducted but no action had been taken against those responsible. He questioned why they were being deprived of their property despite a court ruling in their favour. Yaseen appealed to Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, saying that while the government claims to provide shelter and protection to citizens, their family was facing threats to their lives and property. He demanded an impartial inquiry and protection for the family so they could live without fear.

On the other hand, SHO Saddar Shakargarh Umar Hayat Goraya rejected all allegations, stating that no police violence had taken place. He said the court verdict in favour of Nadeem and others did exist, but possession of the property could only be obtained through a bailiff and proper legal procedure.