Munish Sood
Mandi
A significant controversy has surfaced within the top echelons of Himachal Pradesh’s bureaucracy, with Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta facing allegations over a land purchase in Solan district’s Chester Hill. Responding publicly, Gupta has categorically denied all charges, describing the complaint against him as “baseless, misleading, and part of a larger conspiracy.”
The complaint, filed at Chhota Shimla police station by former Advocate General Vinay Sharma, has triggered a sharp exchange of allegations and counter-allegations among senior officials. Addressing the media, Gupta questioned the intent behind the complaint, terming it “motivated” and alleging it was aimed at gaining undue attention.
Detailed Clarification on Land Transaction
Providing a detailed account of the transaction, Gupta stated that the 3-acre land parcel was purchased in July 2025 after obtaining prior government approval. He emphasized that he was not holding the post of Chief Secretary at the time of purchase.
He further noted that the land’s collector rate was ₹1.10 crore, while the actual purchase was made at ₹1.35 crore—above the official valuation. Explaining the source of funds, Gupta said ₹75 lakh was withdrawn from his General Provident Fund (GPF) in June 2025, and relevant documents have been shared with the media.
Strong Counter-Allegations Against Former Officials
In a strong rebuttal, Gupta accused former Chief Secretaries R.D. Dhiman and Prabodh Saxena of orchestrating a campaign to malign his reputation. He also raised questions over their integrity, alleging that both were involved in attempts to target him unfairly.
He further claimed that some officials now levelling allegations against him are themselves under scrutiny, with vigilance cases already registered and investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) underway in related matters.
Legal and Procedural Concerns Raised
Questioning the legal validity of the complaint, Gupta said that the complainant had invoked provisions under corruption law that are no longer in force, thereby undermining the credibility of the allegations.
He also referred to alleged irregularities in the Kunihar–Nalagarh power line project, estimated at approximately ₹130 crore, suggesting violations of established norms during its execution.
Questions Over Regulatory Approval
Expanding the scope of his response, Gupta raised concerns regarding the role of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) in approving the Chester Hill project. He questioned how the project received clearance if procedural lapses existed, indirectly pointing towards former RERA Chairman Shrikant Baldi.
Policy Context and Administrative Fallout
Citing the state government’s policy framework, Gupta stated that the Chief Minister has issued clear directives against granting extensions or key assignments to officers with “doubtful integrity.” He alleged that this policy shift has led to resistance from certain quarters, resulting in attempts to create a narrative against him.
Gupta also highlighted his administrative track record, stating that he had successfully turned around a loss-making department during his previous tenure, which led to his elevation to the post of Chief Secretary.
Escalating Institutional Confrontation
The Chester Hill land issue has now escalated into a broader institutional confrontation, exposing deep divisions within the state’s administrative machinery. With serious allegations and counter-allegations emerging from multiple sides, the controversy is poised to have significant administrative and political ramifications in Himachal Pradesh.
