Jalandhar, April 29, 2025 (Yes Punjab News)
FIR Filed for Blocking Highway to Protest Against bio-CNG Plant
Jalandhar Rural Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Adampur Congress MLA Sukhwinder Singh Kotli and several others, including 21 identified individuals and approximately 100-150 unidentified persons.
The FIR pertains to their involvement in blocking the Jalandhar-Pathankot National Highway on April 23rd, during a protest against the proposed bio-CNG plant at the Bhogpur Sugar Mill. The plant is intended to process solid waste from the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation.
The FIR includes multiple charges, citing provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and a provision of the Noise Pollution Rules. Significantly, it also invokes Section 8B of the National Highway Act, which carries a potential imprisonment term of up to five years.
While the FIR was registered on the night of April 23rd, details of the filing emerged later, with MLA Kotli reportedly learning about it on Tuesday morning.
The controversy surrounding the bio-CNG plant at the Bhogpur Sugar Mill has been a point of contention for approximately a year. The April 23rd blockade involved active participation from Bhogpur town residents, local shopkeepers, and various farmer groups. Notably, residents of Bhogpur had previously staged a similar highway blockade in August of the previous year to voice their opposition.
Despite previous meetings held between government officials and representatives of the town to address the concerns, a resolution to the issue has remained elusive.
Reacting to the case registered against him, Congress MLA Sukhwinder Singh Kotli has stated that he will continue to raise the issues and concerns of the people of his constituency. He has declared his readiness to court arrest at any time and offered to surrender anywhere if the police call him.
Furthermore, he has asserted his commitment to opposing the establishment of the bio-CNG plant at any cost.
FAQs:
What was the protest about?
The protest was against the establishment of a bio-CNG plant at the Bhogpur Sugar Mill, which is intended to process solid waste from the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation.
Where did the protest take place?
The protest involved blocking the Jalandhar-Pathankot National Highway.
When did the protest happen?
The highway blockade occurred on April 23rd.
Who is the main person named in the FIR?
The FIR names Adampur Congress MLA Sukhwinder Singh Kotli.
How many people are named in the FIR?
The FIR names 21 identified individuals and approximately 100-150 unidentified persons.
What charges are included in the FIR?
The FIR includes six provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), a provision of the Noise Pollution Rules, and Section 8B of the National Highway Act.
What is the potential punishment under the National Highway Act charge?
Section 8B of the National Highway Act provides for imprisonment up to five years.
How long has the dispute over the bio-CNG plant been going on?
The issue has been ongoing for approximately a year.
Have there been previous protests?
Yes, Bhogpur town residents had previously blocked the National Highway in August of the previous year.
Have there been attempts to resolve the issue?
Yes, meetings have been held between officials and town representatives, but the issue remains unresolved.
What has been the MLA’s reaction to the FIR?
The MLA has said he will continue to raise the people’s concerns, is ready to be arrested, and will oppose the bio-CNG plant.
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