The Punjab and Haryana High Court has raised concerns over the Punjab government's failure to conduct a land usage survey in Siswan village, as mandated by a 2014 Supreme Court ruling. The court has ordered state officials to provide affidavits explaining the 12-year delay in the survey, which is essential for determining the legality of constructions in the area. The controversy centers around the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority (GMADA) issuing show cause notices and filing criminal cases against individuals who have built structures, primarily farmhouses, near the Siswan forest area in Mohali district.

Senior advocate Amit Jhanji highlighted that the survey was supposed to ascertain the correct usage of land in Mohali district, yet the administration has labeled many constructions as illegal without conducting the necessary survey. The court is currently hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) that alleges unauthorized activities on de-listed forest land. The area, located in the foothills of the Shivalik hills, is known for its numerous farmhouses owned by influential individuals from Chandigarh, Punjab, and Haryana.

In response to the high court's concerns, the Punjab government has reported conducting 35 demolition drives over the past six months, targeting 450 unauthorized structures and identifying 193 violators, with 40 FIRs registered against them. The government also acknowledged a lack of coordination among various departments in implementing land regulations, which has contributed to the ongoing issues in Siswan.