A major controversy has erupted in Himachal Pradesh involving the sport of rugby, with Bollywood actor Rahul Bose facing accusations of securing a Himachal domicile certificate through unlawful means to qualify as the National President of Rugby India.

According to members of the former royal family of Jubbal, Bose allegedly approached them in 2023 with assurances that he would help establish and officially recognise a Rugby Association for Himachal Pradesh. They claim he sought their support and influence, promising rapid development of the sport in the state.

However, nearly two years later, the royal family says none of those commitments materialised. Instead, they allege that the association built through the efforts of hundreds of rugby enthusiasts across several districts is now being pushed aside, while attempts are being made to create a fresh body from the ground up.

Divya Kumari, representing the Jubbal royal family, says she now feels misled. She asserts that Bose used their support only to strengthen his position at the national level. According to her, he required two votes from Himachal for the Rugby India presidential selection—votes he could only obtain by holding a Himachal domicile. She alleges that this certificate was issued to him improperly.

Divya also questioned how Bose, who she says was born in Kolkata and officially holds documents such as Aadhaar, passport, and domicile from Maharashtra, could simultaneously possess a bonafide certificate from Himachal Pradesh.

With no resolution in sight, Divya has filed a petition before the Himachal Pradesh High Court seeking a probe into the matter. The case is now scheduled for hearing on December 18.