RIMS Encroachment Case: High Court Orders ACB Probe, Keeps CBI Option Open
Strong stand against illegal constructions, decades of administrative failure exposed
Ranchi News: The has delivered a stern and far-reaching order in connection with decades-long encroachment on land belonging to the (RIMS) in Ranchi. Highlighting serious administrative and institutional failures, the court has directed the (ACB) to conduct a criminal investigation against responsible government, municipal, and regulatory officials.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice and Justice observed that the gravity of the matter warrants a CBI probe; however, for now, the court has ordered the state police and ACB to register FIRs and carry out a detailed investigation. The court clarified that the option of a (CBI) inquiry will remain open if required. The next hearing is scheduled for January 6, 2026.
Illegal constructions on land acquired in 1964–65
The court noted that land for the establishment of RIMS was acquired in 1964–65 under the Land Acquisition Act, 1894, with compensation duly paid, after which the land vested completely in the state government. Despite this, illegal registrations, mutations, issuance of rent receipts, non-encumbrance certificates, approval of building plans, and even RERA clearances continued for years.
Case emerged from a Public Interest Litigation
The issue came to light during the hearing of a Public Interest Litigation pending since 2018. Acting on the High Court’s directions, the Member Secretary of the (JHALSA), , conducted an inquiry and submitted a report confirming encroachment on nearly seven acres of RIMS land.
According to the report, temples, shops, huts, parks, multi-storey residential buildings, apartments, and commercial establishments had been constructed within the RIMS campus. The court observed that these encroachments adversely affected hospital services, posed serious threats to hygiene and security, and led to incidents of theft and molestation, particularly near the girls’ hostel.
Role of officials under scanner
The court raised serious questions over the role of municipal, revenue, planning, and regulatory authorities, stating that such long-standing illegal constructions could not have occurred without official collusion. The bench indicated that strict action would be taken against those found guilty during the investigation.
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