Supreme Court Asks Punjab to Respond in Shanan Power Project Dispute with Himachal Pradesh

The Supreme Court of India has issued a notice to the Punjab government, directing them to respond by November 8 regarding the Shanan Power Project dispute.

Background

Advocate General of the Himachal Pradesh High Court, Anup Kumar Rattan, explained that the suit filed by Punjab cannot be entertained by the Supreme Court under Article 131, as it is based on a treaty and an agreement, which fall outside the court’s jurisdiction in such cases.

Rattan detailed the history of the Shanan Power Project, stating, “In 1925, the then king of Mandi leased the land for 99 years to the Government of India for the Shanan Power Project, and the lease expired in March 2024. With the lease now expired, Himachal Pradesh has a rightful claim over the project, and it belongs to the people of Himachal Pradesh.”

Current Situation

The Punjab government has sought to retain control over the project by approaching the Supreme Court, but Himachal Pradesh is contesting this claim. The matter, including the petition to dismiss the lease, will be heard on November 8.

Statements from Officials

Earlier this month, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stressed the need to assert Himachal Pradesh’s rightful claims in court to maximize benefits for the people of the state. He said that the 110 MW Shanan hydroelectric project in Jogindernagar, Mandi district, must be handed over to Himachal Pradesh, as the lease period in favor of Punjab has expired.

CM Sukhu added that the state government would urge the Supreme Court to direct the Punjab government to hand over the project to Himachal Pradesh before October 31 this year. He mentioned that the matter would also be taken up with the Centre and the Punjab government to ensure the prompt transfer of the project.