A fresh political controversy has gripped Madhya Pradesh after Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar levelled serious allegations that government land near the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain — originally earmarked for public parking — was privatised and subsequently sold to a company whose directors allegedly include a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator. The allegations have triggered formal complaints, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), and sharp exchanges between the ruling party and the Opposition.

The Land Deal at the Centre of the Row

According to Singhar, a parcel of approximately 45,000 square feet near the Mahakal Temple was purchased on 2 March 2026 for ₹3.82 crore by Utopia Hotel and Resort Private Limited. The Congress leader claims the company's directors include BJP MLA from Alot, Chintamani Malviya, and his business associate Iqbal Singh. Singhar alleged that the land — originally classified as government property — was first privatised and then transferred to the private firm, raising questions about the process and intent behind the transaction.

Stamp Duty Evasion Alleged

Complainant Rajendra Kuwal, a resident of Ujjain, has filed formal complaints with the Chief Secretary, the Lokayukta, and the Economic Offences Wing (EOW). The complaint alleges that revenue records from 1950 and 1967–68 show the acquired land parcels were officially recorded as government property. It is further alleged that the land was registered by falsely classifying it as agricultural land, resulting in the evasion of approximately ₹3.40 crore in stamp duty and registration fees. A PIL has also been filed before the Indore Bench of the High Court.

What the Opposition Said

Singhar drew a sharp contrast between the stated purpose of the Mahakal Lok project — presented as a religious and cultural development initiative — and what he described as its alleged use for real estate transactions benefiting those close to the ruling establishment. 'Has ‘Mahakal Lok’ itself — under the watch of your government — now become merely a vehicle for property deals involving BJP leaders and your associates?' Singhar said in a statement on Tuesday, 19 May. He added: 'First, there were allegations of corruption within the Mahakal Lok project. Now, there are allegations regarding the encroachment upon and commercial dealing in the very land of Mahakal. The BJP government has transformed religion from a matter of faith into a mere business enterprise.'

BJP MLA Denies the Charges

MLA Chintamani Malviya rejected the Opposition's allegations, calling them 'false and malicious.' He did not elaborate further in his response, according to reports. The BJP government in Madhya Pradesh has not issued a formal statement on the matter.

What Happens Next

With a PIL pending before the Indore High Court and complaints lodged with multiple accountability bodies — including the EOW and the Lokayukta — the matter is likely to face judicial scrutiny in the coming weeks. The Mahakal Lok project, inaugurated with considerable fanfare as a flagship religious tourism initiative, now faces renewed questions over land acquisition and beneficiary selection in its surrounding precincts.