Dharamshala/Shimla: The Himachal Pradesh government, under CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has stirred a hornet’s nest with its controversial decision to amend the Land Ceiling Act. Deputy CM has defended the Bill. But critics argue otherwise.
Touted as a move to "support stable institutions and religious organizations," the proposed bill has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters while exposing glaring contradictions in political narratives.
Deputy CM Mukesh Agnihotri defended the amendment in the Vidhan Sabha with a rambling justification, stating, "This is a one-time corruption provision for religious institutions and the people of the state."
However, his explanation raised more questions than it answered, as he alternated between vague reassurances and baffling statements about net banking, land transfers, and political will.
BJP’s Silent Surrender?
Interestingly, the opposition's response has been muted. While the BJP formally opposes the bill, it has refrained from mounting a strong critique.
Many are questioning whether the silence signals tacit approval or a lack of political will to challenge the powerful religious organizations eyeing Himachal’s precious land.
The Elephant in the Room: Land as Vote Bank
Critics argue that the amendment is a thinly-veiled attempt to appease influential religious organizations, converting them into a potent vote bank.
With over 5,000 acres of land already controlled by various religious groups, the bill could open floodgates for more acquisitions under the guise of "service to the people."
"This isn’t about spirituality or stability," commented a local activist.
"This is a political strategy dressed up as reform, paving the way for privatization and monopolization of Himachal’s natural resources."
A History of Land Mismanagement
The Deputy CM dismissed concerns about land sales, stating that the amendment isn’t linked to commercialization.
Yet, data reveals a troubling history of large tracts being handed over to private entities and influential groups without transparency.
The government’s reluctance to disclose specifics about past land allocations has only deepened public skepticism.
The Price of Silence
Agnihotri's repeated references to “service” offered by religious organizations did little to allay fears of favoritism.
"Why has the government failed to outline strict safeguards against misuse?" asked the critics.
"Himachal’s land is its lifeline. You can’t barter it away for political favors."
As the debate rages on, the proposed amendment has turned into a litmus test for the Sukhu government. Is this truly about public interest, or is it yet another chapter in the age-old saga of land grabbing and cronyism, commented a retired revenue official.
