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Punjab human rights panel issues show-cause notice to Ludhiana MC chief
The Punjab State Human Rights Commission issued a show-cause notice to the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation commissioner for non-compliance with prior directions on pothole repairs. The commission had directed a report in July 2025, which was not filed, prompting the latest action. A reply is due ahead of the May 18, 2026 hearing.
Why It Matters
This highlights accountability mechanisms for public safety infrastructure and the role of human rights bodies in enforcing municipal compliance.
Timeline
5 Events
Next hearing date set; reply due
April 23, 2026
The commission directed the MC chief to submit a reply before the next date of hearing on May 18, 2026.
Show-cause notice issued under PHRA Section 16
April 23, 2026
The Punjab State Human Rights Commission issued a show-cause notice to Ludhiana MC commissioner Neeru Katyal Gupta under Section 16 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, asking why penal action should not be recommended for intentionally and wilfully non-compliance with the commission's orders. Sabharwal said potholes have led to accidents and fatalities, and officials had not acted despite repeated approaches. Gupta, who had recently joined, said she was not aware of the earlier order but would identify officials responsible for delay and file a report.
Commission directs report from MC chief
July 2025
In July 2025, the Punjab State Human Rights Commission directed the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation chief to submit a report on pothole repairs.
Complaint filed over potholes in Ludhiana
February 2025
Social activist Rohit Sabharwal filed a complaint with the Punjab State Human Rights Commission in February 2025 alleging unfilled potholes across Ludhiana, claiming poor road conditions had led to accidents and safety risks.
Report not filed despite directive
2025
The commission noted that the report had not been filed despite multiple opportunities following the July 2025 directive.