The ex-MLA, Hoshyar Singh Chambyal, was involved in the alleged embezzlement during his tenure between 2023 and 2024. (Photo: X@Hoshyar Singh Chambyal, enhanced by Gemini)The Himachal Pradesh State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau (SV&ACB) has booked a former Independent MLA from Dehra in Kangra district for the alleged misappropriation of government funds under the MLA Discretionary Grant Scheme. The ex-MLA, Hoshyar Singh Chambyal, was involved in the alleged embezzlement during his tenure between 2023 and 2024.The SV&ACB had registered an FIR on July 17 at a police station in Dharamshala under IPC (Indian Penal Code) Sections 409 (criminal breach of trust) and 420 (cheating).A senior bureau officer said the case was registered following a preliminary inquiry into a complaint filed by employees of a company owned by Chambyal. Some of these employees were also listed as beneficiaries under the grant scheme.The vigilance bureau said it examined official records, bank documents of beneficiaries, government files, statements of complainants and other witnesses during the verification process.The officer said, “The inquiry revealed that financial assistance was sanctioned and disbursed in the names of several individuals under the MLA Discretionary Grant Scheme in 2023 and 2024 despite the complainants and other beneficiaries claiming they had never applied for such assistance.”According to the investigators, the beneficiaries said the money credited to their bank accounts was withdrawn in cash and handed over to the former legislator on his instructions. The bureau said documentary evidence and bank records prima facie indicated that the funds were diverted from their intended purpose and that the beneficiaries did not receive the actual benefit of the grants.The bureau said the investigation would also examine the role of other persons and determine whether offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act or other legal provisions were attracted.Story continues below this adChambyal was elected as an Independent MLA from Dehra in the 2022 Assembly elections.In 2024, he resigned from the Assembly along with two other Independent legislators, triggering a by-election after extending support to the BJP and later joining the party. He re-contested the Dehra bypoll as a BJP candidate but lost to Congress nominee Kamlesh Thakur, wife of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.Chambyal was unavailable for comments despite repeated calls and messages.Saurabh Parashar is an Assistant Editor at The Indian Express, primarily responsible for the publication’s coverage of Himachal Pradesh. He is a seasoned journalist with over 17 years of experience in print media, specializing in crime, legal affairs, and investigative reporting. Professional Background Education: He holds a Master’s degree in Mass Communication from Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology (Hisar) and a Law degree from Himachal Pradesh University (HPU), Shimla. This legal background significantly informs his reporting on complex judicial and administrative matters. Career Path: Before joining The Indian Express in 2017, he spent 12 years with The Times of India. Core Beats: His primary focus is the socio-political landscape of the hill state, with a specific emphasis on the environment, forest conservation, drug menace (specifically "Chitta"), affairs related to tribal and archaeology and the unique challenges of governance in high-altitude regions. Recent Notable Articles (Late 2025) His recent reporting highlights the critical intersection of policy, law, and social safety in Himachal Pradesh: 1. "Himachal’s battle against Chitta: Why the border areas are most vulnerable" (Late 2025): An investigative look at the transit routes from Punjab and the impact on local youth. 2. "Shimla ropeway clears key hurdle as 820 trees face the axe :According to the Forest Survey of India’s 2021 assessment, 47.21 percent of Shimla’s 5,131 sq km geographical area is under forest cover (Nov 17, 2025). 3. "Himachal to handover 2.7427 ha of non-forest land for Shimla Ropeway: Given the land’s non-forest nature, RTDC and the state will not require permission from MoEFCC" (Nov 18, 2025) 4. "How the centuries-old Jodidara tradition is fading in Himachal’s Trans-Giri region: Jodidara: a form of fraternal polyandry—has long been part of Hatti tribal culture in the Trans-Giri region of Himachal Pradesh and adjoining Uttarakhand. It is believed to have evolved to prevent division of ancestral land and maintain unity among brothers in the harsh, mountainous terrain" (Aug 18, 2025) Legal & Agricultural Affairs "Kisan Sabha hails SC’s setting aside Himachal HC order to remove orchards from forest land" (Dec 18, 2025): Covering a major Supreme Court victory for farmers, where a High Court order to remove fruit-bearing apple orchards was overturned. "Himachal Cabinet nod to new tourism policy; focus on home-stays in tribal areas" (Dec 11, 2025): Detailing the legislative push to decentralize tourism and bring economic benefits to Lahaul-Spiti and Kinnaur. 3. Governance & Environment "Forest rights and development: Why Himachal is seeking more leeway from Centre" (Dec 19, 2025): Reporting on the legal hurdles faced by the state in infrastructure projects due to the Forest Conservation Act. "Cloudbursts and resilience: How Himachal’s remote villages are building back better" (Nov 2025): Following up on the long-term rehabilitation efforts after monsoon-related disasters. Crime especially cyber crimes, crypto currency etc: crypto currency: "Agents in uniform, motivational speeches, lavish parties: How a Himachal crypto con went unnoticed:A serial conman, a ‘Nelson Mandela Nobel Peace Award winner', and retired policemen got together to pull off a Rs 1,740-crore fraud" (Nov 10, 2023) Signature Beats Saurabh is recognized for his tenacious reporting on the state's drug epidemic. His deep familiarity with the topography and tribal culture of Himachal allows him to report from remote locations like Spiti, Pangi, Shillai, which are often overlooked by national media. His legal expertise makes him a primary choice for covering the Himachal Pradesh High Court on issues ranging from local body elections to environmental PILs. X (Twitter): @saurabh_prashar . ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on InstagramTags:Himachal Pradesh Police