Chester Hills row: Land laws, allegations and administrative clash
Explainer: From alleged benami land deals to a face-off between CPM & Himachal Chief Secretary, here’s a breakdown of controversy surrounding Solan housing project
A high-end housing project in Solan has landed in controversy over alleged violations of land laws, triggering a probe and a sharp divide within the administration. With political accusations flying and residents raising concerns, the Chester Hills case has evolved into a complex issue involving legality, governance and accountability.
What is the Chester Hills project and why is it in the news?
Chester Hills is a gated housing society in Solan offering studio apartments, 1, 2 and 3 BHK flats, along with villas. The project has come under scrutiny after serious allegations of legal violations, environmental concerns and administrative inaction surfaced, particularly regarding its Phase II and IV.
What triggered the controversy?
The issue began on August 20, 2025, when Solan resident Rajiv Shandil and the Association of Allottees filed complaints with the district administration. They alleged violations of Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, 1972, claiming that non-agriculturist promoters were involved through benami transactions.
Related news: ‘Baseless’: Himachal Chief Secretary denies Chester Hills scam allegations
What did the SDM’s inquiry find?
An inquiry conducted by the SDM, based on documents submitted to HP RERA and financial records, concluded on November 13, 2025, that the project had bypassed legal restrictions. It found that while land was purchased in the name of Himachali agriculturists, actual control, covering development, marketing and finances, rested with non-Himachali promoters operating through partnership firms.
What specific violations were highlighted in the probe?
The inquiry pointed out that a local agriculturist had acquired around 275 bighas of land, which was disproportionate to his known income, indicating benami dealings. Loans worth crores taken in his name were quickly repaid by associated firms, further raising suspicion. Additionally, rights related to development and possession were later transferred to non-Himachali entities, allegedly violating Section 118.
What stand did the Chief Secretary take?
After the SDM recommended vesting of the land, the promoters appealed to the Chief Secretary in December 2025. In his order dated December 16, 2025, he dismissed the SDM’s findings, saying that the land purchases were backed by legitimate financial sources like institutional loans. He also observed that acting on the SDM’s report could harm the interests of agriculturists.
What are the political and public dimensions of the issue?
The controversy escalated politically when CPM leaders accused the officiating Chief Secretary of favouring the promoters. He rejected the allegations, calling them attempts to tarnish his image. Meanwhile, residents and allottees have raised concerns with bodies like the National Green Tribunal and the Solan Municipal Corporation over environmental damage and lack of civic amenities, but claim they have received little relief. The matter has also been raised in the Vidhan Sabha, adding to the pressure for accountability.
