SHIMLA: In a stinging order, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has clamped down on high-ranking government officials and influential private parties and political class, who’ve dodged dues to the state’s Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC).

Justice Ajay Mohan Goel, overseeing the matter, didn’t mince words, directing HPTDC to collect every rupee owed and issuing a clear warning: heads of departments dragging their feet will be held in contempt.

The November 12 order was a wake-up call for those with outstanding dues.

HPTDC’s Managing Director informed the High Court that  by November 7, the Corporation had managed to recover ₹1.68 crore from government departments and another ₹47 lakh from private parties, but the court isn’t satisfied yet.

HPTDC biggest defaulter is the Government.

The corporation has recovered Rs 2.15 crore so far but it has yet to recover Rs 3.04 crore including Rs 2.45 crore from government departments and over Rs 59 lakhs from private individuals.

HPTDC has been tasked with pushing collections even further by the next hearing, and, moving forward.

The Corporation must demand an 80% advance payment for bookings like weddings and parties at its properties.

The court’s ruling is especially harsh on those who’ve leveraged their clout to enjoy the perks of HPTDC’s hotels and banquet halls without paying up.

From now on, all bookings by government departments or private individuals must come with a signed confirmation of event details, a breakdown of the guest count, and—crucially—a solid deposit.

Any HPTDC staff failing to enforce these policies could find themselves personally liable to cover any losses. 

In a follow-up action, the HPTDC MD, Rajiv Kumar, today issued directive to the unit heads across all state-run properties.

Should they let guests rack up tabs or bypass deposit requirements, they’ll be held directly accountable.

The order also mandates that any outstanding dues from government departments be cleared by December 30 or the heads of these departments will face contempt of court.

High Court also sought occupancy reports and revenue details from HPTDC properties for  the past three years. slamming its hammer down on everyone—from VIP freeloaders to senior officials.

The High Court is clear:  settle your dues, or face the court’s wrath. Next date of hearing is November 19.