BJP Accuses Himachal Government of Threatening Land Ownership with Proposed Amendments

Concerns Over Land Ownership in Himachal Pradesh

BJP Raises Alarm Over Proposed Changes

Shimla: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has voiced strong objections against the Congress-led government in Himachal Pradesh, headed by Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, for its plans to amend Section 118 of the Land Reforms and Tenancy Act of 1972. The BJP claims these amendments could pave the way for the sale of state land to non-residents.

BJP spokesperson Sanjay Sharma has accused the government of being part of a broader scheme to sell off Himachal's land. He emphasized that this provision was originally introduced by former Chief Minister Dr. YS Parmar, a member of the Congress party, to protect the interests of local farmers and horticulturists. This clause restricts the sale of agricultural and forest land to individuals who are not residents of Himachal Pradesh, thereby preserving local ownership.

“The Sukhu administration appears to have overlooked the fact that Section 118 was established by its own party to safeguard the people of Himachal,” Sharma stated. “Every BJP administration in the state has consistently supported this law, which has ensured the protection of agricultural and forest lands in Himachal.”

Allegations of Business Interests Influencing Government Decisions

Pressure from Business Lobbies

Sharma further alleged that Chief Minister Sukhu is under the influence of the Congress high command and business interests linked to the party. He argued that the proposed changes to Section 118 are steps towards making Himachal Pradesh vulnerable to outside investments.

“It is alarming that every time the Chief Minister returns from an overseas trip, he brings back new initiatives aimed at privatizing public assets,” Sharma remarked. He referenced the controversial decision to allocate land from Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University for tourism projects following Sukhu's visit to Dubai last year, a decision that faced legal challenges.

Additionally, Sharma accused the government of privatizing the operations of the state electricity board and transferring tourism corporation hotels to private entities, actions he claims have resulted in significant financial losses for the state.

BJP's Stance on Section 118 Amendments

Opposition to Changes

Sharma criticized Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who previously condemned the former government for allegedly selling off Himachal's assets but is now silent on the current government's actions. “He is either under pressure or his personal interests are being prioritized,” Sharma suggested.

The BJP has pledged to vehemently oppose any attempts to amend Section 118, both within the Assembly and in public forums. “The current government is disappointing every segment of society in Himachal. They are reneging on their promises and catering to a select few. The BJP will do everything possible to defend the interests of the people of Himachal,” Sharma concluded.