Land Controversy Unfolds: Chester Hill Under Scrutiny

The Himachal Pradesh government has initiated a fresh inquiry into alleged 'benami' land deals in the Chester Hill housing project, following opposition accusations of violating Section 118 of the Land Reforms Act. The government retracted a previous order dismissing these allegations, leading to calls for a Special Investigation Team.

The Himachal Pradesh government is embroiled in controversy over the Chester Hill land case in Solan. On Saturday, it ordered a new investigation into alleged 'benami' land deals and purported violations of Section 118 of the HP Land Reforms and Tenancy Act.

This section restricts land purchases by non-Himachalis. The state government also rescinded an earlier order, which had dismissed the findings of irregularities in the Sub-Divisional Officer's inquiry as invalid. Opposition parties BJP and CPI(M) claim that land laws were disregarded, demanding a Special Investigation Team to probe alleged activities of land mafia in the region.

The Chief Secretary, accused of involvement, has refuted claims, suggesting a conspiracy orchestrated by former officials. A fresh directive now instructs the Solan Deputy Commissioner to investigate Section 118 violations, amid demands for the Chief Secretary's removal for a fair probe.

(With inputs from agencies.)