THIS refers to editorial ‘Ruthless evictions’ (May 16) which has asserted that for a state to deprive residents of their homes without providing alternative housing for them is a “dereliction of duty” and is an “act of extreme cruelty”.

I would like to ask why is there a need for a state to resettle those who had illegally constructed houses on various nullahs which should remain functional during the heavy monsoon season?

Though these occupants did obtain no objection certificate (NOC) for lease, as well as for gas and electricity connections probably by greasing a few palms, no one can claim compensation against property built illegally on government land.

Instead, the state should recover the cost of demolition and removal of debris from them. In addition, the state should also recover fine equal to the market rent of the occupied space for the duration of the illegal possession of public land and also take action against its employees who took part in the illegal land possession.

K.M. Shafi

Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 20th, 2021