Srinagar, Jan 10: The Court of the District Magistrate/Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, has dismissed the appeal filed by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and upheld the eviction order issued in favour of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), clearing the way for recovery of leased land.
Officials said the land measuring 08 kanals under Survey Nos. 326-min, 328-min and 3179-min was leased to BSNL Kashmir in September 1982 under Government Order No. 72-IMS of 1984 for a period of 40 years. The lease expired in September 2022 and was not renewed as the land is required for SKIMS infrastructure expansion.
Despite repeated requests, BSNL did not vacate the premises, leading to proceedings under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act, 1988. The Estates Officer, SKIMS, Prof. (Dr.) Ghulam Hassan Yatoo, issued an eviction notice followed by an eviction order on February 29, 2024.
BSNL challenged the order under Section 12 of the Act. However, after hearing both sides, the appellate court vide order dated January 8, 2026 dismissed the appeal and vacated the interim stay granted on March 14, 2024.
With the dismissal of the appeal, SKIMS will be able to utilize the land for development of key healthcare facilities, including the Cardiac Centre, Neurosciences facilities, Emergency Block and other critical care projects, officials said.(KNB)
