SIT probe into Gaggal airport land deals reveal 9 benami transactions: Himachal CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu

A special investigation team (SIT) probing irregularities in land deals surrounding the proposed Gaggal airport expansion in Himachal Pradesh has uncovered nine potential benami transactions, leading to four criminal cases, the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reported to the state legislature on Tuesday. The probe commenced following concerns raised in the previous Assembly session by Congress MLA Rakesh Kalia regarding land purchases and compensation linked to the airport project.

Suspected suspicious deals involve individuals purchasing land from impoverished families at bargain prices, only to claim higher compensation when the land was acquired for the expansion. The SIT has submitted nine status reports detailing investigations into the land transactions, potential benami ownership, and associated banking activities. Based on these findings, four criminal cases have been filed with the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB).

Chief Minister Sukhu affirmed that the government scrutinized whether legal provisions, including Section 118 of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act, were adhered to during these transactions. Four cases have been forwarded to respective deputy commissioners for further action. He emphasized that political affiliations, positions, or influence would not sway the investigation. Sukhu stressed that the government's focus remains on adhering to the facts, evidence, and applicable laws in the matter.

The SIT was constituted on February 17, with the Director General of Police (DGP) forming a four-member team led by the Superintendent of Police, Dharamshala.