Shimla, April 20
Preliminary investigations into the Chester Hills housing project in Solan have revealed irregularities in about 150 bighas of land, and the state government has initiated a detailed probe into alleged violations and financial misconduct, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi said.
Addressing the issue, Negi said the inquiry is ongoing, and all facts will be brought into the public domain. He indicated that violations of Section 118, violations of norms under the Real Estate Regulatory Authority, and possible money laundering have emerged during the initial stages of the investigation.
The minister said that the probe has found serious discrepancies in land transactions related to the Chester Hills-2 and Chester Hills-4 projects, in which land was allegedly purchased in violation of legal provisions. According to preliminary findings, around 275 bighas of land were acquired in the name of a local farmer, Hans Raj Thakur, which does not align with his known sources of income. He added that the actual control of the land appears to be with non-agriculturist promoters, pointing towards suspected benami transactions.
Meanwhile, the Himachal Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority has imposed an interim penalty of ₹35 lakh each on the two project components. The action follows allegations of handing over possession without obtaining an occupancy certificate, irregularities in the formation of the Residents’ Welfare Association, and misuse of project funds.
Negi described the matter as serious and said a departmental inquiry is in progress. “Strict action will be taken against those found guilty,” he said, adding that further details are likely to emerge as the investigation progresses. The government has stated that accountability will be fixed once the probe is complete.
On a separate issue, Negi criticised the women’s reservation bill, calling it the BJP’s “Shakti Vandana Bill” and accusing the party of politicizing the matter. He alleged that the Prime Minister’s addresses to the nation resemble election speeches and questioned whether such communication during ongoing elections in two states violates the Model Code of Conduct.
He also raised questions over the need to revisit the bill, stating that it had already been passed in 2023 with support from opposition parties. He asked why a special session was convened again on April 16 and why the bill has not yet been notified, while alleging that it is being used to push for delimitation and an increase in seats.
Taking a dig at MP Kangana Ranaut, the minister said those speaking about women’s rights should also explain their silence during incidents of violence against women in Manipur.
Responding to queries on the deferment of a portion of salaries of the Chief Minister, ministers, MLAs, and officials for six months, Negi said the decision was taken to ensure that development work continues without disruption. He also hit back at the Leader of the Opposition over suggestions to cut government expenditure, saying opposition leaders should also consider giving up some of their own benefits.
