Himachal Govt decentralises revenue revision powers to Divisional Commissioners

In a significant administrative reform aimed at simplifying and expediting the disposal of revenue revision cases, the state government has decided to delegate the powers of the Financial Commissioner (Appeals) under Section 17 of the Himachal Pradesh Land Revenue Act, 1954, to the Divisional Commissioners of Shimla, Kangra and Mandi.

A government spokesperson stated on Monday that this decision was taken in response to the growing number of revision cases following the 2002 amendment to the Act. The amendment had centralised revision powers solely with the Financial Commissioner (Appeals), leading to a sharp rise in caseload and compelling citizens - especially from remote and far-flung areas - to travel to Shimla repeatedly, causing considerable inconvenience and escalating litigation costs.

The delegated authority will apply specifically in cases where the Divisional Commissioners have not already exercised appellate jurisdiction under Section 14 of the Act. The new move aims to decentralise authority, enhance access to justice and improve administrative efficiency.