Emphasizing a strict policy to curb stubble burning incidents, Deputy Commissioner Rahul Chaba has made it clear to all cluster officers, nodal officers, and police officials that they must either work effectively to prevent stubble burning or be prepared to face the consequences. He was addressing a meeting at the local District Administrative Complex’s meeting hall with Senior Superintendent of Police Sartaj Singh Chahal, Additional Deputy Commissioner Amit Bambi, all SPs, SDMs, DSPs, cluster officers, and other officials.
He instructed cluster officers to report any nodal officers under their supervision who are reluctant to perform their duties. He clarified that employees/officers failing to perform their tasks will face consequences.
He noted that this time, stubble burning incidents are being closely monitored by the Honorable Supreme Court and central agencies tasked with preventing environmental pollution. The entire activity is being monitored via satellite.
He directed administrative and police officials to adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward paddy stubble burning and conduct joint patrols in sensitive areas. All SDMs, DSPs, and SHOs were instructed to step out of their offices and maintain strict vigilance in the field.
It was made clear that if any farmer sets fire to fields, not only will the farmer face fines and punishment, but the concerned officers and SHOs will also face serious consequences. DC Rahul Chaba stated that special attention is needed in the coming days to prevent stubble burning in the district.
He said cluster officers should visit villages with police personnel and spread the message against burning paddy stubble. He emphasized that joint patrols by civil and police officials will effectively deter people from setting crop residue on fire.
The Deputy Commissioner directed that meetings be held with sarpanches, farmer unions, and influential individuals in all villages of Sangrur district. Additionally, announcements regarding not burning stubble should be made from gurdwaras, temples, and other religious places.
If anyone obstructs awareness efforts, their information should be immediately reported to the police. He stated that this will help prevent stubble burning in fields. He also mentioned that there is no shortage of machinery for proper stubble management in Sangrur district, and farmers need to be encouraged to use it.
On this occasion, SSP Sartaj Singh Chahal stated that cases will be registered against farmers who burn stubble. No leniency will be shown to any individual or organization violating the orders of the Honorable Supreme Court, and strict legal action will be ensured.
He directed all police officials to ensure, in the coming days, that no one sets fire to stubble in their respective areas. He added that, as per the orders of the Honorable High Court, the concerned SHOs will be held responsible for stubble burning incidents in their areas and should prioritize preventing such cases.