Controversy Surrounds Officer in Chester Hills Land Scam Investigation
Allegations Against Solan SDM Poonam Bansal
Munish Sood
Solan
In a surprising turn of events regarding the Chester Hills land scandal, the officer who initially uncovered the alleged multi-crore scam is now facing serious allegations herself. Poonam Bansal, the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Solan, is being scrutinized for her potential involvement in a suspected benami land transaction, prompting demands for a vigilance investigation and disciplinary measures.
The situation escalated when Acting DGP Ashok Tiwari formally requested the Solan Deputy Commissioner to initiate an inquiry, citing documentary evidence, bank transaction trails, and verification reports from the field. This development has raised concerns within administrative circles, particularly given Bansal's previous role in exposing the irregularities associated with Chester Hills.
Financial Transaction Sparks Concerns
A significant transaction of around ₹40.50 lakh is at the heart of these allegations. Initial investigations suggest that this amount was transferred by Bansal's husband to a third-party bank account shortly before a crucial land deal was finalized. This particular piece of land was later registered under a different individual's name.
Authorities suspect that this could indicate a typical benami scheme, where the true beneficiary is hidden behind a facade of proxy ownership.
Suspicion of Fund Layering
The investigation report also hints at possible 'layering' of funds, with money allegedly funneled through various accounts and intermediaries in a brief timeframe. Such financial maneuvers are often employed to obscure the origins and ownership of funds.
Potential Conflict of Interest
A significant issue raised during the investigation is the timing of these transactions. The land deals in question reportedly occurred while related revenue matters were still pending within the same administrative area, raising serious concerns about a potential conflict of interest and the misuse of official authority.
Chester Hills Project Under Scrutiny
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing investigation into the Chester Hills housing project, which is suspected of violating Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act. Allegations suggest that land was purchased in the names of local farmers, followed by extensive development.
State Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi has indicated that the potential scam could involve around ₹300 crore and nearly 150 bighas of land, with the broader issue possibly extending to 275 bighas. This has also raised questions about the involvement of senior bureaucratic officials.
Investigation Set to Intensify
Sources indicate that vigilance authorities may escalate their investigation in the near future. Should prima facie evidence be found, the case could transition from departmental proceedings to a comprehensive criminal inquiry.
Currently, the report is under review at the Deputy Commissioner level, with the state government expected to determine the next steps.
This case has ignited not only political and administrative discussions but also raised broader questions about internal accountability and whether this is a retaliation against an officer who uncovered a significant scam.