Ranchi, March 2: The Jharkhand State Housing Board has issued a notice to former India cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni over the alleged misuse of a residential plot located on Harmu Road in Ranchi, officials said.
According to the housing board, the plot was allotted to Dhoni strictly for residential purposes but was allegedly being used for commercial activities, which constitutes a violation of the allotment rules.
Chairman of the board Sanjay Lal Paswan said the irregularity came to light during an inquiry conducted by the authority.
“A residential plot was allotted by the Jharkhand State Housing Board to cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni, but it was found to be used for commercial purposes. We have issued notice to him for violation of rules and norms,” Paswan said.
Reports suggested that a diagnostic facility was being operated from the Harmu Road premises, prompting the board to initiate a probe.
Officials said a final notice has been served seeking an explanation from Dhoni. If the response is found unsatisfactory or no compliance is made, the board may initiate proceedings to cancel the plot allotment.
Paswan said the alleged “violation of norms and regulations” was detected during the course of the inquiry and appropriate action would follow as per rules.
Dhoni had earlier lived at the Harmu Road residence but currently resides at his new house on Ring Road in Ranchi. Officials added that notices have also been issued to other individuals and institutions found using residential plots for commercial purposes, including the state office of the Bharatiya Janata Party on Harmu Road.
Meanwhile, Dhoni is presently in Chennai training with Chennai Super Kings for the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League.
