Historic Wild Flower Hall Comes Back to Himachal Government

: Category: Latest; Published: 21 February 2024

HimbuMailNewsService

Shimla/New Delhi: After a long-standing dispute between the Oberoi group's EIH Ltd and the Himachal Pradesh government over the iconic Wild Flower Hall in Charabra, Shimla, the matter has finally been put to rest.

The Supreme Court of India has upheld the ruling of the HP High Court, directing EIH Ltd to surrender possession of the Wild Flower Hall by March this year.

The Wild Flower Hall holds significant historical and cultural importance in the region. Originally built in the late 19th century as the residence of Lord Kitchener, the then Commander-in-Chief of the British Indian Army, it later transformed into a hotel.

Over the years, it gained renown for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and its luxurious accommodations, attracting tourists and dignitaries from around the world.

The dispute arose when the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) ran the hotel before then Congress government leased it out to EIH Ltd in 1995.

Since then, ownership and management of the property have been the subject of legal contention between the Oberoi group and the state government. The group failed to make it operational as per agreement with the government.

The Supreme Court's decision to uphold the HP High Court's ruling marks a significant milestone in resolving this prolonged dispute.

The high Court had directed the company to hand over the resort to Himachal Governmentby March.

EIH Ltd has been directed to return the Wild Flower Hall to the Government of Himachal Pradesh, allowing for its future management and utilization to be determined by the state authorities.

This resolution not only brings closure to the legal battle but also paves the way for the preservation and continued enjoyment of the Wild Flower Hall's rich heritage and natural beauty for generations to come. **CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu praises Supreme Court's ruling on Hotel Wildflower Hall**

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has lauded the Supreme Court's decision affirming the Himachal Pradesh High Court's verdict on the ownership of Hotel Wildflower Hall.

Expressing contentment with the apex court's ruling, the Chief Minister highlighted its significance in safeguarding the state's interests.

He credited the meticulous efforts of the State Government, particularly the engagement of renowned lawyer Mukul Rohatgi, for effectively advocating the state's case.

The Oberoi Group, which had possession of the property, has been ordered by the Supreme Court to vacate it within a year.

The State Government will deliberate on future actions concerning the property, prioritizing Himachal Pradesh's best interests.

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Sword of Uncertainty Over Six CPSs’ Fate Temporarily Lifted: Relief for Sukhu Government

In a major relief to the Himachal Pradesh government, the Supreme Court has stayed the High Court’s directive to initiate disqualification proceedings against six MLAs who were appointed as Chief Parliamentary Secretaries (CPSs).

This decision, welcomed by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has brought a temporary reprieve to his administration, which was grappling with the political and legal ramifications of the High Court’s order.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court had earlier quashed the appointments of the six CPSs, deeming them unconstitutional, and directed the Assembly Speaker to initiate disqualification proceedings under the anti-defection law.

However, the Supreme Court’s stay has effectively paused the implementation of this directive, offering the government some breathing space to strategize its next legal move.

CM Sukhu Hails Supreme Court’s Clarity

Speaking to media persons in New Delhi, CM Sukhu expressed his satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s interpretation, which he said provided much-needed clarity on the matter.

"The relief granted by the Supreme Court is significant, and we will deliberate on the next steps after considering all legal aspects,” he said.

The Chief Minister also emphasized that the apex court’s interpretation differed from paragraph 50 of the High Court’s verdict, which had been the basis of the controversial directive.

Opposition’s “Childish” Behavior Criticized

Shifting his focus to the opposition, Sukhu took a sharp jab at their tactics, describing their behavior as “childish” and lacking focus on real issues.

“There are no controversies here, but their behavior is simply immature. From toilet tax to ‘Samosa Politics,’ they are just distracting from the real issues,” he said.

Sukhu accused the opposition BJP of attempting to create diversions because of its failure to make a dent in the Congress’s strength during the Vidhan Sabha elections.

“Their ‘Operation Lotus’ was decisively rejected by the people, and Congress retained its 40-seat strength. Now, they resort to personal attacks to divert attention from our welfare schemes,” he added.

Relief Amid Mounting Challenges

The Supreme Court’s stay on the High Court’s order has momentarily eased the pressure on the Sukhu government, but the sword of uncertainty continues to hang over the six MLAs who served as CPSs.

With questions around their appointments still unresolved, the case remains a legal minefield.

The CPS appointments had drawn criticism for allegedly violating constitutional provisions, which prohibit the creation of such posts without legislative backing.

The High Court’s scathing remarks and the directive for disqualification had added fuel to the controversy, creating a storm in the state’s political landscape.

While the Supreme Court’s intervention provides temporary relief, the Sukhu government must now prepare for a protracted legal battle to defend the appointments and protect its legislative majority.

Opposition’s Counterattacks

The BJP, meanwhile, has been quick to pounce on the issue, accusing the government of flouting constitutional norms for political convenience. Party leaders have argued that the CPS appointments were a backdoor way to reward loyalists, a claim that Sukhu has staunchly denied.

The opposition’s attacks, combined with the ongoing legal scrutiny, highlight the precarious nature of the government’s position. For now, the Supreme Court’s decision is a welcome pause, but the final word on the matter could still have far-reaching consequences for the political stability of Himachal Pradesh.

Sukhu’s Call for Responsibility

Amid the controversy, Sukhu reiterated his commitment to governance and welfare. He called on the opposition to act responsibly and raise issues that matter to the common man.

“Significant progress has been made in improving the socio-economic status of the underprivileged during this tenure, and that remains our priority,” he stated.

With the legal wrangling far from over, the fate of the six CPSs—and the stability of the Sukhu government—remains inextricably tied to the unfolding courtroom drama.

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