Controversy Surrounds New Celestial Gardens at Chief Minister and Former Minister Residences

Newly constructed celestial gardens ‘Nav Vatika’ at the residences of the Chief Minister and former Minister have come under scrutiny once again as the file regarding these gardens has resurfaced. A confidential investigation has now been initiated regarding this matter. This case pertains to the lavish gardens at the official residence of the Chief Minister in Shimla. Allegations suggest that during the previous Jayaram government, these gardens were needlessly constructed with a substantial amount of money, bypassing regulations, and unauthorized construction was carried out in the designated area.

Some time ago, officials from the Forest Department had buried this file. However, a social activist has now invoked the Right to Information (RTI) Act to seek information about this matter, leading to the Forest Department’s Divisional Officer providing information that an investigation is indeed ongoing, albeit classified.

During the previous Jayaram government, the Chief Secretary of Forest at that time, Onkar Sharma, had instructed the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests to conduct an inquiry into a complaint received and take appropriate action. Compliance reports were also sought at that time. The Oak Over residence was occupied by Chief Minister Jayaram Thakur. Now, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukkhu resides there.

The then Forest Minister Rakesh Pathania had a new celestial garden constructed at his official residence even before Oak Over was developed. Complaints were raised about both of these gardens. In between, the investigation was stalled and some officials were even contemplating closing it down.

Amidst this, the complainant, Brij Lal, has requested information under the RTI Act about the investigation. Plantations were done in this celestial garden according to the positions of the planets. Concrete was used for its construction. The complainant questioned why there are no strict regulations in this matter for influential individuals, while there are stringent rules against any construction work for the common people.

Following the establishment of the investigation, then Forest Minister Rakesh Pathania had criticized bureaucracy and stated that officials have no work to do. He mentioned that they would construct not just one, but several celestial gardens and firmly rejected any unauthorized construction.