HC seeks affidavit on government houses occupied by journalists
Photo used for indicative purpose only
Shimla, Sept 18
Himachal Pradesh High Court has sought a detailed account of government accommodation allotted to journalists, including the legal provisions under which such houses were allotted, in a move that brings under scrutiny the use of government residences by persons outside the regular pool of government employees.
The direction came after the court was informed that a large number of government houses were occupied by journalists “at the cost of other Government officials”.
The court has asked the State Government to place on record the number of such houses, the provisions under which journalists were granted allotment, the dates of allotment and the nature or category of accommodation allotted to them.
The issue assumes importance in the backdrop of the High Court’s recent scrutiny of government accommodation occupied by former Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPSs), after their appointments had been struck down.
In that matter also, the court examined the basis on which government residences continued to remain occupied and sought details from the State regarding such accommodation, including the status of the occupants and payment of licence fee.
The two proceedings concern different categories of occupants, but the court’s directions bring into focus the broader question of allotment and continued occupation of government residences and whether accommodation from the official pool is being provided or retained under legally sanctioned provisions.
In the present case, the court also recorded that the State had failed to file an affidavit despite an earlier direction issued on August 5, 2026. The Bench comprising Chief Justice G.S. Sandhawalia and Justice Jiya Lal Bhardwaj directed the respondents-State to now furnish the complete particulars regarding accommodation allotted to journalists.
Also Read
Adopt fair and transparent procedure in allotment of Govt. accommodations directs State High court
The court has specifically required the government to disclose how many government houses are occupied by journalists, under which provisions the allotments were made, when the allotments were made and what kind of houses were allotted.
The direction was passed in Court on its own motion versus State of Himachal Pradesh and others, CWP No. 8324 of 2023. Additional Advocate General Rakesh Dhaulta appeared for the State.
The matter has been listed for further hearing on October 28, 2026.
The court has not, at this stage, declared the allotment of government accommodation to journalists illegal. Its order instead seeks details of the provisions under which such allotments were made, along with the date and category of accommodation allotted. The question of the legality or justification of individual allotments will arise for consideration after the State places these details before the court.
About the Author
