States » NorthPosted at: Jun 19 2025 12:29AM


Himachal: Panchayat Head dismissed for encroachment on govt land

Shimla, June 18 (UNI) Sharmila Devi, also known as Ramila Devi, the elected head of Gram Panchayat Pekha in Chirgaon Tehsil of Shimla district, has been dismissed from her position for allegedly encroaching on government land.
Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap exercised powers under Sections 146(1)(2) and 122(1)(c) of the Himachal Pradesh Panchayati Raj Act, 1994, to remove her from office and declared her ineligible to contest any panchayat-level election for six years.
The action follows a complaint filed by village resident Jai Pyari, wife of Hari Lal, under Sections 162, 163, 164, and 175 of the same Act. The petition, accepted by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Rohru on June 21, 2022, alleged that Sharmila Devi’s father-in-law, Keval Ram, had encroached on government land registered under Khasra No. 621.
After investigating the matter, the SDM invalidated Sharmila Devi’s election. In response, she filed an appeal with the Deputy Commissioner. However, Anupam Kashyap upheld the SDM’s decision and dismissed her petition, ordering her immediate removal and disqualification for six years. She has also been directed to hand over all panchayat cash, records, stock, stamps, and other related documents to the Panchayat Secretary without delay.
This case reflects a deeper concern about how corruption and encroachments are no longer limited to higher political circles but are also spreading at the grassroots level.
In a state like Himachal Pradesh—renowned for environmental preservation—it is alarming to witness elected panchayat representatives engaging in illegal occupation of forest and government lands.
Such misuse of power at the local level shows how some individuals exploit their positions to shield unlawful activities, undermining the rule of law. The incident serves as a stern reminder for authorities to remain vigilant and act decisively against encroachment and corruption, regardless of the perpetrator’s rank or influence.
UNI ML RN
Tags: #Himachal: Panchayat Head dismissed for encroachment on govt land
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