An alleged illegal resort built on forest land in the Anandpur Sahib area of Punjab has sparked controversy, with villagers and officials claiming that commercial activities continue despite orders from the district administration, Forest Department and an ongoing police case.An official communication dated March 10, 2026, was written by the Ropar ADC to the Rupnagar SSP. It highlighted complaints of unauthorised construction and environmental violations, directing the authorities to verify facts and initiate legal action, if irregularities were confirmed. The communication pointed out that the construction was being carried out without mandatory approvals and compliance certificates, in violation of the environmental norms and land-use regulations.According to the complaint, the site where the resort is being run falls under regulated provisions where prior permissions are essential, under environmental laws and regional planning regulations. Allegations include illegal land-use change, excavation and improper handling of waste, all of which pose a threat to the surrounding ecosystem.Despite the fact that the complaint to the police was sent over a month ago, no case has been registered so far.A separate case has already been registered under the Punjab Land Preservation Act (PLPA), 1900, along with other relevant forest and environmental laws. That case stems from an earlier incident in February 2025, when forest officials conducted a raid and found machinery, including a JCB and tractors, engaged in illegal excavation on protected land. The accused were identified and formal proceedings initiated on February 18, 2025.Local residents, however, allege that operations at the resort have not ceased. Jarnail Singh, a resident of Mohiwal village where the resort is located, said events continue to take place at the site. “Groups of people visit the resort regularly and loud music is played late in the night, disturbing the entire village,” he said.Villagers alleged that repeated attempts by the Forest Department to restrict access to the resort have been undermined. “Forest officials have dug up the approach road multiple times to stop movement, but each time they leave, workers associated with the resort fill the pits and restore access,” said another resident.According to locals, private security personnel or “bouncers” have been deployed at the resort, who allegedly threaten villagers opposing the ongoing activities.Ropar Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Kanwardeep Singh said the department had already written to the district administration seeking action against the illegal construction. “We have taken steps to curb activities, including digging up the access path to the resort. Further action now requires coordination with the district administration,” he said.Ropar DC Aditya Dachalwal said the matter had recently been brought to his attention. “We will examine the issue and take appropriate action as per law,” he said.Villagers are demanding immediate to halt all activities at the site, demolition of the illegal construction besides ensuring accountability of those responsible.