Himachal Pradesh News
Solan DC Probes Chester Hills Land Deals, Seeks Details Amid Benami Transaction Allegations
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Solan has intensified the investigation into controversial real estate firm Chester Hills, seeking detailed records of multiple land parcels acquired across Solan and Kasauli subdivisions. The probe focuses on possible violations of Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, 1972, particularly allegations of benami transactions.
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Solan has intensified the investigation into controversial real estate firm Chester Hills, seeking detailed records of multiple land parcels acquired across Solan and Kasauli subdivisions. The probe focuses on possible violations of Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, 1972, particularly allegations of benami transactions.
According to officials, if these allegations are proven, the land in question could be seized and vested in the state government. The inquiry, initiated on directives from the state government, marks a significant step toward addressing growing concerns over illegal land dealings in the region.
🔍 Delayed Report Acceptance Raises Questions
In a notable development, the DC has formally accepted a detailed 25-page report submitted by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Solan. The report, which examines Chester Hills-2 and Chester Hills-4 projects, was submitted over four months ago but has only now been taken into official consideration.
The delay, coupled with rising political allegations and local concerns, has turned the Chester Hills case into a high-profile issue involving governance, transparency, and accountability.
🏗️ Structured Dealings to Bypass Law?
The SDM’s investigation reveals that the projects may have been developed through a structured arrangement designed to bypass legal restrictions. While the ownership of land remained in the name of a Himachali individual and his family members, the actual control, development, and marketing were allegedly handled by non-Himachali promoters.
Such arrangements, if proven, directly violate the provisions of Section 118(1), which restricts land ownership by non-Himachalis without prior approval.
📊 Multiple Land Parcels Under Scanner
The report highlights extensive land acquisitions across key locations:
- 48 bighas at Salogra
- 74 bighas at Bohli (Kumarhatti-Nahan road)
- 70 bighas at Khadin near Parwanoo
- 60 bighas at Rajdi village in Kasauli (marketed as “Chinkara”)
- 23.02 bighas at Kaihthri village in Parwanoo
Most of these land parcels were reportedly purchased in the names of the Himachali individual’s wife and sisters. However, officials noted that the declared income sources do not match the scale of these investments, raising further suspicion.
⚖️ Next Hearing on May 4
The realtor was summoned on April 23 but failed to provide the required documentation. As per DC Manmohan Sharma, additional time has been granted following requests from the project representatives. The next hearing is scheduled for May 4, where further clarifications are expected.
🚨 What Lies Ahead
The district administration is currently awaiting detailed reports from revenue officials in Solan and Kasauli. The findings could play a crucial role in determining the legality of the transactions and potential government action.
As the investigation deepens, the Chester Hills case is emerging as a key test of land regulation enforcement in Himachal Pradesh—one that could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.
