Himachal Chief Minister Vows Legal Fight Over British-Era Hydel Power Plant

Amid a dispute over the 99-year lease of the Shanan Hydroelectric Project, Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu led a high-level meeting. Despite Punjab relinquishing ownership, it hasn't returned control to Himachal. The state plans to present a strong case in the Supreme Court.

Amid a heated dispute over the 99-year lease of the British-era Shanan Hydroelectric Project in Jogindernagar, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu convened a high-level meeting with senior state officials on Thursday. The project has been at the center of contention since the 1925 lease agreement between Raja Joginder Sen and British representative Colonel BC Batty.

With Punjab relinquishing ownership but withholding control from Himachal Pradesh, the Chief Minister directed officials to present a compelling case in the Supreme Court. Sukhu emphasized the government's determination to reclaim all rights over the project to benefit the state's residents. "The present state government will fight vigorously to get back the rights of Himachal Pradesh," he stated.

The lease, set to expire on March 2, 2024, was originally signed between the ruler of Mandi and Punjab's Chief Engineer. Sukhu reaffirmed that the Punjab government must hand over the project without delay, as it lies within Himachal territory. The meeting included key officials preparing a robust legal strategy to reclaim the project. Meanwhile, Punjab has asserted ownership in the Supreme Court, citing a 1967 central notification, and maintains control through the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd (PSPCL).

(With inputs from agencies.)