IEP Chandigarh, June 13
Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan today directed the officials of the Culture, Archaeology and Museums Department to speed up the process for the early settlement of the case, currently pending in the Punjab and Haryana High Court, related to the historical haveli of Diwan Todar Mal in Fatehgarh Sahib.Presiding over the meeting to ensure proper upkeep and preservation of the haveli in Vidhan Sabha, the Speaker emphasized that Diwan Todar Mal raised the voice for the protection of human rights following the ideology of our great Guru Sahib. He said that the state government will leave no stone unturned to preserve the haveli in it’s original form.S. Kultar Singh Sandhwan also assured the Secretary, Shiromani Gurdwara Management Committee Bhai Sukhwinder Singh and his legal team that besides taking action for the early resolution of the case, the state government will file a application in the court for the preservation of the haveli in the upcoming monsoon season.The Speaker directed the Secretary of the Culture, Archaeology, and Museums Mr. Gurkirat Kripal Singh that considering the seriousness of the matter, he should take appropriate action for ensuring prompt hearing of the case in the High Court. Deputy Commissioner of Fatehgarh Sahib Smt. Praneet Shergill was also directed to make arrangements including boundary wall, parking, and cleanliness for the sangat coming to the haveli. The Deputy Commissioner apprised that district administration is making arrangements for the drainage of rainwater as per the directions of the High Court.S. Sandhwan asked the Additional Advocate General Mr. Sumandeep Singh Walia to designate a dedicated advocate from the Advocate General’s office for the proper follow up of the case.Bhai Lakhwinder Singh Kahneke, President, Diwan Todar Mal Virasati Foundation brought to the notice that if the restoration work of this heritage building is not done expeditiously, the building itself might deteriorate rapidly.Prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included; MLA Fatehgarh Sahib S. Lakhbir Singh Rai, MLA Bassi Pathana S. Rupinder Singh, Shiromani Committee lawyer Ms. Puneet Kaur Sekhon, Additional Advocate General Mr. Sumandeep Singh Walia.
