Jalandhar, Jan 6 : After a decade on the Punjab Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) premises in Jalandhar, Apaar NGO, which supports adults with autism and intellectual disabilities, was evicted on January 3. The NGO alleged that their belongings, including furniture and vital records, were damaged and dumped into an e-waste room during the process, with some items reportedly missing.
Dr. Navneet Bhullar, founder member of Apaar, claimed they were initially asked to vacate in mid-November 2024 to accommodate faculty housing. Despite requesting time until December, the eviction occurred unexpectedly. Bhullar called the forced eviction “unacceptable” and expressed concerns about its impact on the marginalized beneficiaries.
PIMS CEO Dr. Kanwaljit Singh stated that the eviction was necessary to meet National Medical Council requirements and to construct a nursing hostel. He denied allegations of damage, asserting that the NGO had occupied the space free of cost for nearly 10 years and delayed its departure multiple times.
The NGO has since relocated its belongings and is arranging an alternative space. The eviction has raised questions about the treatment of NGOs and their critical services to vulnerable communities.
