Jairam Thakur Questions CM Sukhu Over Alleged Chester Hill Scam,

Mandi, April 4: Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur has launched a strong attack on Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, accusing him of maintaining silence over the alleged ₹1500 crore Chester Hill scam while taking “disproportionate action” in minor matters.

In a statement issued from Mandi, Thakur questioned why the Chief Minister, who allegedly ordered a CID probe over a minor issue like a missing samosa and initiated action in a bus-related incident, has not responded to serious allegations surrounding the Chester Hill project. He termed the situation “deeply concerning” and demanded clarity from the government.

Thakur alleged that despite multiple complaints and inquiry reports pointing towards violations, no concrete action has been taken. Referring to media reports, he claimed that investigations conducted at various levels—including by the Tehsildar and Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) Solan—had flagged violations under Section 118 and raised serious questions regarding land ownership, financial capacity, and procedural lapses.

He further alleged that instead of acting on the SDO’s findings, the matter was unnecessarily forwarded to higher authorities, raising doubts about administrative intent. “Why was the file sent to the state secretariat when the Deputy Commissioner had the authority to act?” he questioned.

Thakur also raised concerns over alleged illegal construction and environmental violations, including excessive building height and dumping activities that reportedly affected natural water sources in nearby villages. He claimed that despite orders for corrective action, implementation has been delayed.

Accusing the government of “selective governance,” Thakur said the public deserves answers on why stringent action is taken in minor cases while serious allegations involving large-scale financial irregularities remain unaddressed.

He concluded by urging the government to come clean on the issue and take transparent, time-bound action, stating that the people of Himachal Pradesh are closely watching the developments.