In a latest development in the ongoing Chester Hill controversy, the state government today directed Deputy Commissioner (DC) Solan to institute proceedings for alleged violation of Section 118 of the HP Tenancy and Land Reform Act, 1972, in the housing project. This follows the re-examination of the case at the highest level. The order comes after the state government withdrew the December 6, 2025, letter by Chief Secretary (Revenue), which had set aside the SDM (Solan) report recommending vesting of the land and action under Section 118 and the Benami Act. Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) has now written a letter to the DC to institute proceedings against the Chester Hill project so that suitable action can be taken for the alleged violations.The letter to DC Solan specifically mentions that the objections to the inquiry report by Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) submitted on November 13, 2025, have also been set aside. The issue of alleged violations in the Chester Hills housing project in Solan district, especially regarding Section 118, has rocked the state with allegations and counter-allegations being levelled. Following accusations being hurled at Acting Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta for granting undue favour to the housing project, a Pandora’s box has virtually been thrown open. Gupta has tried to come clean by pointing fingers at his predecessors, denying any undue favour.It’s worth noting that SDM (Solan) in her inquiry report submitted on November 13, 2025, had recommended vesting of lands of the agriculturist for violation of Section 118 and the Benami Act. The complaint against the housing project was filed before the SDM by Rajiv Shandil and Association of People Chester Hills. Following the latest directives, former CPM leader and former Shimla Mayor Sanjay Chauhan today demanded that Acting Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta be removed from his post and an FIR be registered against him for alleged misuse of his position. He alleged Gupta misused his position to benefit the company, as only the DC was empowered to take action and the Divisional Secretary and Financial Commissioner were appellate authorities.“Chauhan demanded, “The order issued by Municipal Commissioner Solan to demolish the illegal construction undertaken by Chester Hills project in violation of Section 118 should be implemented.”