Chandigarh — Satnam Singh Chahal, the Executive Director of the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), has called upon the Punjab government to introduce a bill in the Punjab Assembly similar to those enacted in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. The proposed legislation would prohibit individuals from other states from purchasing land in Punjab, a move aimed at protecting the local population and their rights over land.
Chahal emphasized the growing concerns over land ownership by non-residents, highlighting the potential risks to the region’s socio-economic fabric. He also raised alarms over the increasing presence of illegal immigrants and individuals from other states living in Punjab, noting that these populations have been linked to a rise in criminal activity in certain areas.
“There is an urgent need for the Punjab government to take action and safeguard the interests of the people of Punjab. Just like Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan, Punjab should pass a law that restricts outsiders from purchasing land. This will not only protect the land rights of our people but will also help prevent the influx of illegal persons whose presence is contributing to the growing crime rates,” Chahal said.
He further urged the government to implement strict scrutiny measures for individuals from other states residing in Punjab, particularly those with unclear legal status, to help ensure public safety and order.
Chahal’s call comes as part of a broader effort to secure the future of Punjab’s agricultural and residential lands, and to preserve the state’s unique cultural and social fabric amidst changing demographic and economic pressures.