Power to head the selection committee will now rest with the Chief Secretary
Sourabh Sood
Dharamshala
The Himachal Pradesh Assembly on Wednesday passed Bill No. 22 of 2025, bringing significant changes to the functioning and appointment system of the state’s Land Regulation Authority constituted under the Himachal Pradesh Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.
The amendment revises provisions related to the selection, eligibility, and tenure of the Authority’s Chairperson and Members. As per the changes, the power to head the selection committee will now rest with the Chief Secretary, replacing the earlier practice where the Chief Justice of the High Court or his nominee chaired the panel. The government said this change was aimed at improving administrative coordination and making the appointment process smoother.
A four-year fixed tenure for the Chairperson
The bill also introduces a four-year fixed tenure for the Chairperson and Members from the date they assume office. Individuals who have already completed a term or have attained the specified age limit will no longer be eligible for reappointment.
Further, the amendment restricts the appointment of any person currently serving as Secretary or Additional Secretary in the State or Central Government unless they have completed the required separation from service. The government stated that this safeguard has been added to prevent conflict of interest and ensure impartiality.
According to the Statement of Objects and Reasons attached to the bill, the amendments are meant to strengthen the Authority’s governance structure, enhance transparency, and streamline administrative procedures related to land regulation and development. The government said the revised system will help improve efficiency and promote better oversight in the sector.
With the Assembly’s approval, the bill will now move for further procedural steps before becoming law.
