HP Govt launches vigilance probe into alleged land deals near Gagal Airport
Photo used for indicative purpose only
Shimla Aug 27
Himachal Pradesh government has stepped up its investigation into alleged irregularities in land transactions around the proposed Gagal Airport in Kangra, with a Special Investigation Team (SIT) examining suspected benami ownership, questionable land purchases and related financial transactions.
The development was recently shared with the media by a state government spokesperson, who said the four-member SIT, constituted under the chairmanship of the Dharamshala authorities, has so far submitted nine separate status reports on the matter.
According to the government, the reports cover investigations into land deals in and around the Gagal Airport area, including suspected benami ownership and connected banking transactions.
The SIT has registered criminal cases with the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB) in four matters. Land purchase cases identified in its reports have also been forwarded to the concerned district collectors for necessary action under Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Land Revenue framework and other applicable legal provisions.
The probe follows allegations raised in the Assembly over acquisition and purchase of land for the airport and compensation to affected persons. During the discussion, serious allegations surfaced that certain persons had allegedly purchased land from poor and ordinary residents at comparatively lower prices and subsequently attempted to secure higher compensation through government acquisition. Questions were also raised over compliance with Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, 1972.
The government has maintained that the investigation would not be influenced by the political identity, position or influence of any individual and that only facts, evidence and law would determine the outcome. It has also asserted that neither poor landowners nor public funds would be allowed to suffer.
The issue has acquired an additional political dimension after a chargesheet released by the BJP alleged that some prominent land sharks had links with erstwhile Congress leaders who are now in the Opposition.
Sources indicate that the investigating agency has found substantial material against a number of persons and is now zeroing in on those allegedly involved in the transactions. The investigation is expected to establish the actual beneficiaries behind the disputed land deals.
About the Author
