Congress challenges Uttarakhand land transfers; BJP says public ownership will remain

Congress demanded Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s removal on November 4, alleging that he had concentrated decision-making powers to transfer government land and heritage properties to private parties at low prices. Party leader Kumari Selja claimed 1,080 acres had been transferred to the Uttarakhand Investment and Infrastructure Development Board. Protests across the State focused partly on the proposed transfer of Mussoorie’s George Everest estate.

The party said it would approach the Governor and seek judicial intervention if necessary. BJP spokesperson Manveer Singh Chauhan rejected the charges, saying government ownership would remain intact. He said the arrangements aimed to attract investment, create jobs and support sustainable tourism, while preserving regulatory control and the right to reclaim assets after a designated period.

The dispute concerns heritage sites, departmental land and tourism properties, including the former Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited facility in Rishikesh and the Alaknanda Hotel. Congress questioned both pricing and approval powers. The report includes the BJP’s response but provides no transaction documents independently establishing the terms or legality of the arrangements.