Himachal Government and Oberoi Group enter discussions over Wild Flower Hall ownership

The Himachal Pradesh Government and East India Hotel Limited (Oberoi Group) may soon enter fresh negotiations regarding the historic Wild Flower Hall near Shimla, with hopes of advancing tourism in the state. Recently, the state government submitted a new petition to the High Court, seeking to gain control of this renowned property.

In a recent hearing, Justice Jyotsna Rewal Dua directed both parties to report any progress made in their discussions at the next court session on November 18. This new petition follows a previous victory for the state government in the Supreme Court regarding control of the hall. Despite that win, the government returned to the High Court, seeking an expedited process to formally bring Wild Flower Hall under state management.

Himachal Pradesh’s Advocate General, Anup Ratan, emphasized the government’s openness to collaboration with the Oberoi Group. “If any company wants to contribute to tourism promotion in the state, the government welcomes it,” Ratan stated. Previously, the High Court had instructed the Oberoi Group to hand over the property within three months, although the group appealed to the Supreme Court, which upheld the High Court’s ruling.

The ownership debate over Wild Flower Hall has been ongoing for over two decades. As the November 30 deadline for the final hearing approaches, the court has encouraged both parties to explore mediation. Any agreements reached through these discussions will be presented at the next hearing, potentially paving the way for a landmark collaboration in Himachal Pradesh’s tourism sector.