The Himachal Pradesh Assembly cleared a major amendment to the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) framework despite strong objections from the Opposition and civil society groups. The government argued that the overhaul was essential to streamline regulatory functions and ensure smoother governance in the real estate sector, while critics described the move as an assault on institutional independence.
According to details debated in the House, the new provisions reshape the oversight structure of the RERA Appellate Tribunal and redefine the selection and functioning of its members. The Opposition repeatedly claimed that the changes dilute the “separation of powers” principle by giving the government excessive influence over appointments and decision-making. They argued that such steps could erode public confidence in a body meant to protect homebuyers.
The treasury benches, however, defended the bill as a long-pending correction aimed at eliminating procedural delays and ensuring better accountability. The government maintained that the existing system suffers from gaps in coordination, making it difficult for the tribunal to deliver timely judgments. Lawmakers supporting the bill also asserted that the new system will improve enforcement and reduce the backlog of disputes involving real-estate developers and buyers.
As protests continued inside and outside the Assembly, the bill was eventually passed by voice vote. Government functionaries later described the change as “necessary for administrative efficiency,” while Opposition leaders vowed to challenge the amendment in the appropriate legal forums. The debate has revived the broader national conversation on how regulatory bodies should balance autonomy with oversight.
