Himachal Pradesh HC Halts Controversial Land Transfer

The Himachal Pradesh High Court, in a ruling detrimental to the state government, has issued an interim order restraining the transfer of 112 hectares of land from Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Agriculture University, Palampur, to the Tourism Department.

Background

This order was prompted by a public interest litigation submitted by the Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Teachers’ Association. The petitioners contend that the proposed transfer of land for the Tourism Village project would negatively impact agricultural education.

This position was supported by former vice-chancellors of the university, current students, and local community representatives.

Court Directions

The division bench has mandated that the Chief Secretary and the Secretaries of Tourism and Agriculture submit their responses by October 17, 2024.

Conclusion

This ruling highlights the ongoing tension between agricultural education priorities and tourism development initiatives within the state. Further proceedings will clarify the implications of this land transfer on the academic environment.

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