Gurugram, 6 June 2026: In one of Haryana’s largest anti-encroachment operations in recent years, approximately 9.5 acres of prime government land belonging to the Tourism Department was reclaimed in Sohna following the removal of nearly 250 illegal structures constructed over several years.
Located about one kilometre from the Gurugram-Alwar Road, the encroached land had witnessed the development of two unauthorized settlements — Peer Colony and Pahad Colony. The area comprised nearly 250 structures, including around 100 double-storeyed and multi-storeyed buildings.
The operation was carried out over approximately two-and-a-half days through coordinated efforts of multiple departments and resulted in the complete clearance of the encroached land without any major confrontation, agitation or law and order issue.
“Reclaiming this government land was one of the most challenging assignments undertaken by the administration. Many believed that such a large-scale encroachment could never be removed. However, through teamwork, public cooperation and meticulous planning, the operation was completed successfully and peacefully. This action sends a strong message against illegal encroachments and criminal activities while strengthening public confidence in the administration’s commitment towards rule of law and public interest,” said Sh. R.S. Batth, Duty Magistrate and Nodal Officer for the operation.
Long-Pending Encroachment Removed Following Court Orders
The land had remained under litigation for several years. In 2018, the SDM Court ruled in favour of the Tourism Department. Subsequent legal proceedings, including orders passed in 2024, also upheld the department’s claim over the land.
Following these rulings, efforts were initiated to secure possession of the property. During verification and field inspections, it was found that occupants did not possess valid ownership documents, registered sale deeds or legally enforceable agreements pertaining to the land.
Public Cooperation Key to Peaceful Execution
Rather than resorting to immediate enforcement measures, the administration adopted a strategy focused on dialogue and public participation. Multiple meetings were held with residents and local representatives, while announcements were regularly made in the area regarding the legal status of the land and the proposed action.
Senior officials, including ACP Sadar Sohna Sh. Mukesh Kumar, SHO City Sohna Sh. Ravinder Singh, Tourism Department officials and Nodal Officer Sh. R.S. Batth, interacted extensively with residents and community representatives. Requests from residents seeking time to vacate the area were also considered.
As a result, residents voluntarily removed household belongings and vacated structures before demolition commenced. Officials described this as a significant achievement, as virtually all structures had been cleared of belongings prior to the operation.
Extensive Planning and Deployment
The operation was supervised by Sh. R.S. Batth, DTP, GMDA, who was appointed as Duty Magistrate and Nodal Officer for the drive. A large team comprising officials from GMDA, Tourism Department, Municipal Corporation and Police Department was mobilised to execute the operation.
Under the supervision of DCP South Sh. Hitesh Yadav, nearly 200 police personnel were deployed to maintain law and order and ensure smooth execution of the drive. The police deployment included ACP Sadar Sohna, SHO City Sohna, SHO Bhondsi and personnel from various police units, including CIA teams.
Heavy machinery and resources were deployed on a large scale, including 10 JCB machines, two Poclain machines, four water tankers, two fire brigade vehicles and additional support equipment. Around 80-100 labourers were also engaged for demolition and debris clearance activities. Multiple coordination meetings were conducted daily to ensure seamless execution of the operation.
Residents Welcome Action Against Illegal Activities
During interactions with local residents and surrounding communities, concerns were raised regarding criminal and illegal activities allegedly operating within the encroached settlement. Residents cited incidents related to theft, drug abuse and other unlawful activities that had adversely impacted the area’s reputation and safety.
Many residents expressed gratitude to the administration, stating that the removal of the illegal settlement would help improve law and order, enhance public safety and create a more secure environment for families living in the vicinity.
Humanitarian Approach Maintained Throughout
Officials stated that while reclaiming government land was necessary, a humanitarian approach was maintained throughout the operation. Teams remained in constant contact with affected families and facilitated a peaceful transition wherever required.
Several occupants informed officials that they had purchased plots through informal transactions and had invested their savings in constructing houses. The administration provided reasonable time for shifting belongings and assured assistance wherever immediate support was required.
Action Also Targets Criminal Elements
During the operation, around 15 properties were identified as being associated with individuals allegedly involved in criminal activities. Police and CIA teams remained deployed throughout the drive to support enforcement efforts and maintain security in the area.
