Shimla’s Iconic Town Hall Reopens After Legal Battle, Café Resumes Operations
Shimla’s historic Town Hall is once again open to the public after being shut down due to legal proceedings. The Municipal Corporation (MC) of Shimla reopened the heritage building following the Himachal Pradesh High Court’s decision to lift the stay on its operations. This ruling allows the high-end café and food chains operating under a new contract to resume business.
Legal Dispute Delayed Reopening
Shimla MC Commissioner Bhupinder Singh Atri revealed that the High Court had approved the café’s operation before the winter vacation, but the opening was delayed because the concessionaire failed to deposit three months’ advance rent. With the financial obligations now settled, the Town Hall was officially rededicated to the public on Sunday.
Concerns Over Heritage Conservation
The controversy surrounding the Town Hall’s commercial use stemmed from concerns about its adaptive reuse without prior approval from the Heritage Committee and other relevant authorities. Initially, a petition was filed challenging the allotment process, leading the High Court to stay the café’s operations.
However, Advocate General Anup Rattan defended the government’s stance, highlighting that ₹8 crore had been spent on the building’s restoration. He argued that opening a café aligned with both government policies and court directives while ensuring the heritage structure remained preserved.
Court Clears the Way for Café Operations
With the petitioner withdrawing their plea, the legal roadblocks were removed, paving the way for the café’s reopening. The High Court upheld the Municipal Corporation’s authority over the property but stressed that any commercial activity must honor the historical and architectural integrity of the Town Hall.
A Boost for Tourism and Preservation
The reopening of the café is expected to revitalize tourism and generate revenue for the upkeep of the Town Hall. With the prolonged legal dispute now resolved, this historic landmark is once again set to offer visitors a blend of heritage charm and modern hospitality.
