Noida Authority Launches Anti-Encroachment Drive in Sector 18, Police Misbehave with Journalists
Noida Authority conducted an anti-encroachment drive in Sector 18. Goods were seized, fines imposed, and media personnel allegedly mistreated by police during coverage. The incident has sparked concern among journalists and civil society.
Apr 15, 2025, 18:11 IST
Noida, April 15, 2025 — The Noida Authority today conducted a significant anti-encroachment drive in the vibrant Sector 18 market. The drive witnessed bulldozers being used to clear out unauthorized vendors and encroachments on public roadways and footpaths.
Authority officials seized items from street hawkers, roadside carts, and unlicensed buildings. In spite of repeated appeals from traders for the release of their confiscated goods, officials remained inflexible. In addition to the seizure, fines were also issued on offenders.
The operation, however, turned controversial when media personnel reporting the incident were reportedly mistreated by police officers on duty. A number of journalists reported manhandling and verbal abuse as they attempted to report the encroachment removal.
The incident has invited scathing criticism from press organizations, terming it an attack on press freedom. Videos of the altercation have gone viral on social media, with police pushing cameras and limiting reporters from filming.
Authorities insisted the drive was part of a continued campaign to reclaim public space and ensure order in one of Noida's most congested commercial hubs. They warned that such action will follow shortly in other sections of the city that suffer from encroachment.
Authority officials seized items from street hawkers, roadside carts, and unlicensed buildings. In spite of repeated appeals from traders for the release of their confiscated goods, officials remained inflexible. In addition to the seizure, fines were also issued on offenders.
The operation, however, turned controversial when media personnel reporting the incident were reportedly mistreated by police officers on duty. A number of journalists reported manhandling and verbal abuse as they attempted to report the encroachment removal.
The incident has invited scathing criticism from press organizations, terming it an attack on press freedom. Videos of the altercation have gone viral on social media, with police pushing cameras and limiting reporters from filming.
Authorities insisted the drive was part of a continued campaign to reclaim public space and ensure order in one of Noida's most congested commercial hubs. They warned that such action will follow shortly in other sections of the city that suffer from encroachment.
