Shimla, Oct 26
The Himachal Pradesh Government and East India Hotel Limited (Oberoi Group) could be entering negotiations on a fresh proposal aimed at boosting tourism in the state. Recently, the government submitted a new execution petition to the High Court, seeking control of the historic Wild Flower Hall.
In a hearing held on Friday, a single bench of Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua instructed both parties to present the results of any discussions during the next court session, scheduled for November 18.
This latest petition comes after the state government successfully contested a similar case in the Supreme Court. Despite winning that ruling, the government filed another petition in the High Court to expedite the handover of Wild Flower Hall, located near Shimla, to state control.
Also read Supreme court upholds eviction of EIH ltd from Wildflower hall in Shimla: Victory for Himachal Govt
The state’s Advocate General, Anup Ratan, indicated that the government remains open to proposals from the Oberoi Group, stating, “If any company wants to contribute to tourism promotion in the state, the government welcomes it.”
Also read Wildflower hall law suit: Major set back to Oberoi group as HP HC dismisses decades old litigation
Earlier, the High Court had ordered the Oberoi Group to hand over the hotel to the government within three months. However, the hotel chain appealed to the Supreme Court, where no relief was granted.
Also read HP Govt to not extend lease of Hotel wildflower hall to Oberoi Group : Mins
The dispute over the ownership of Wild Flower Hall has spanned over two decades, with the final hearing on this matter expected to take place before November 30. The court has encouraged mediation between the parties, and any agreements reached will be presented in the upcoming hearing.
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