Himachal Govt deposits ₹64 Cr to avoid attachment of Himachal Bhawan

In a bid to avert the attachment of Himachal Bhawan, the Himachal Pradesh government deposited ₹64 crore with the High Court registry . The payment is linked to a long-pending arbitration dispute with M/s Moser Baer company over the Seli hydropower project.

Advocate General Anup Rattan confirmed that the deposit complies with an earlier order by Justice Ajay Mohan Goel. He further stated that the remaining interest amount will be paid as soon as the state secures the required funds.

Himachal Bhawan Attachment Reversed

The High Court had previously ordered the attachment of Himachal Bhawan on November 18, citing the state’s failure to comply with a directive from Justice Sandeep Sharma. That order required the payment of ₹64 crore, along with 7% interest, as part of the arbitration case. The attachment was intended to recover ₹150 crore owed to Seli Hydro Electric Power Company.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu acknowledged the court’s directive, expressing the government’s intent to honor its legal obligations. Legal experts believe this partial compliance could forestall further punitive actions from the court.

Inquiry into Payment Delays

The High Court has also called for an inquiry into the delays in processing the payments. Officials found responsible for the delay could face financial consequences. The next hearing in this case is scheduled for December 6, 2024, where the court is expected to evaluate the government’s progress on the remaining dues.

This development underscores the state’s efforts to manage legal challenges while safeguarding public assets like Himachal Bhawan.