Anurag Dhanda: A political exchange over the condition of a road connecting Ajnala and nearby villages has triggered a debate over which government agency is responsible for its maintenance.
The controversy began after Man Aman Singh Chhina posted about what he described as the “non-existent road from Ajnala to our village” and said he was looking forward to the sitting MLA losing the election deposit in the next elections.
Anurag Dhanda Questions Criticism of Ajnala Road
Responding to the post, journalist Anurag Dhanda questioned the criticism of the MLA, pointing out that the road could fall under the jurisdiction of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
Dhanda asked whether the critic was aware that the road comes under BRO, which is controlled by the central government. He also questioned whether the criticism of the sitting MLA was motivated by a personal grievance.
BRO Comes Under Central Modi Government
The exchange has brought renewed attention to the question of responsibility for road infrastructure in the Ajnala region.
BRO, which functions under the Ministry of Defence, is responsible for the construction and maintenance of strategically important roads, particularly in border areas. Available BRO tender documents have identified the Ajnala–Lopoke–Sohal Road under the organisation’s area of responsibility.
The issue has consequently raised questions over whether the local MLA or the central agency should be held accountable for the road’s condition.
While elected representatives can raise public concerns with the relevant authorities irrespective of which agency controls a project, determining the road’s official jurisdiction is important before assigning direct responsibility for its maintenance.
