In a significant but a shocking development, Himachal Pradesh Government has taken over all Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) properties including Dharamshala international Cricket Stadium and luxurious hotel The Pavalion.
Action was taken after the approval from Himachal Pradesh Cabinet, met in Shimla on late Saturday, in which it was decided to cancel the land lease granted to the HPCA Dharamshala stadium and a five-star luxury resort. Following the cabinet approval district administration taken over the ground in mid-night and broke the locks of hotel Pavillion at late tonight around 2 AM.
HPCA is headed by former Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal’s MP son Anurag Thakur and was under vigilance probe for alleged irregularities from past some times. Even the state vigilance and anti-corruption bureau has registered two FIRs against the HPCA for alleged irregularities. The cooperatives registrar has also issued a show-cause notice to the HPCA raising legal questions on its switch-over from a society to a company and likely to give its decision on Monday.
HPCC president Anurag Thakur termed it politically motivated and clearly pointed out to approach court over the Govt action. While the decision is not unexpected, it could prove as a serious blow to the HPCA and cricket in state. A Ranji Trophy group C Match between Himachal Pradesh and Goa team was schedule at Dharamshala Cricket stadium from today and now it’ll be interesting to see that who will host this match.
