Citizens spend night at incomplete community hall, demand its completion

Risala Bazaar: In what can be termed as unique way of protest, the residents of Risala Bazaar spent a whole night at the incomplete community hall to bring to the notice of the authorities to complete the work. It has been two months since the foundation stone was laid for Ambedkar Community Hall.

Krishank Manne, Congress leader said, “The foundation stone was laid with much fanfare with the then SCB, CEO, Sujatha Gupta and former SCB board president Ajay Negi taking part in the ceremony but since then little has been done. The place now has become a place for anti-social elements.’

The project was to be completed at a cost of Rs 1.59 crore. Locals say that stray dogs, vagabonds and urchins have made it their home in a way. Ravi, a resident of Risala bazaar said, “There is a need for a good community hall as people cannot afford to spend lakhs and get their children married. When the foundation stone was laid, there was a lot of hope but it is coming to two years now and the place has become a bastion for beggars and stray animals.”

Krishank said, “Basti nidra, is our way of protest to draw the attention of the authorities. People spent the night in deplorable conditions. Congress leaders and residents dined together (rice, potato curry and lentils) prepared by the locals at the site.