Mizoram MP Calls for Central Probe into Massive Land Acquisition Scandal
In a significant development highlighting concerns over governance and financial integrity, Mizoram Rajya Sabha MP K Vanlalvena has formally approached the highest offices in the country demanding immediate intervention. On Saturday, the parliamentarian submitted a detailed representation to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging them to direct central investigative agencies to launch a comprehensive inquiry into alleged large-scale corruption surrounding land acquisition procedures at Lengpui.
Allegations of Gross Violation and Financial Misappropriation
Vanlalvena's appeal centers on what he describes as "gross violation of law and trust" in the acquisition of land near Lengpui airport and the Sihphir area within Aizawl district. According to the MP, the Mizoram government procured this land, purportedly for establishing crucial air defense systems for the Indian Air Force, at what he terms "exorbitant and unjustifiable rates." This acquisition, he alleges, was executed in direct contravention of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013.
The MP emphasized that the people of Mizoram unequivocally support national security and development projects. However, he declared, "We shall never allow our soils to be turned into a breeding ground for corruption by unscrupulous elements. Transparency, justice and accountability must prevail."
Staggering Financial Figures and Claims of Siphoning
The scale of the alleged malpractice is staggering. Vanlalvena claims that public funds exceeding Rs 187.90 crore appear to have been illicitly diverted through what he describes as "dubious intermediaries." He pointed to a suspected nexus of corruption and collusion involving various actors. "The scale of this malpractice is alarming," the MP stated in his representation. "It is not merely a financial irregularity but a betrayal of constitutional principles and public faith. Such misuse of central funds, meant for national security and welfare, cannot be tolerated under any circumstances."
Political Pressure Mounts for CBI Investigation
The demand for a probe is gaining momentum across political lines. Vanlalvena's own party, the Mizo National Front (MNF), had previously taken action. On Thursday, the party submitted a separate representation to Chief Secretary Khilli Ran Meena, who also serves as the chief vigilance officer for the state. The MNF formally sought consent for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged land scam, which they claim involves "political executives and powerful bureaucrats."
Congress Party Adds to the Allegations
Adding another layer to the controversy, the Vigilance Cell of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) has also entered the fray. They have directly appealed to Chief Minister Lalduhoma to publicly disclose the names of individuals who allegedly received payoffs and kickbacks. Their focus is on two specific recipients:
- Henry Lalremsanga Hlawnmual: Allegedly received Rs 117.90 crore despite reportedly not owning any land in the Lengpui village area that was acquired for the IAF project.
- Rohmingliana: Allegedly received Rs 70 crore after purchasing land from the original owners.
The MPCC Vigilance Cell, in a letter to the CM, stated that the Rs 117.90 crore paid to Hlawnmual was "reportedly revealed as to be distributed to the people in power," hinting at a wider conspiracy. Mirroring the MNF's demand, the Congress cell also urged the Chief Minister to grant general consent to the CBI to investigate the matter thoroughly. Demonstrating their seriousness, the MPCC filed an official First Information Report (FIR) at the CBI's site office in Aizawl on Thursday.
A Call for Accountability and Restoring Public Trust
The converging actions from the state's MP, his party, and the opposition highlight a deep-seated concern over administrative transparency and the use of public funds. Vanlalvena's plea to the President and Prime Minister underscores a demand for exemplary action to hold those responsible accountable without delay. The overarching goal, as articulated by the stakeholders, is to restore integrity in public administration and ensure that funds allocated for critical national security infrastructure are not compromised by alleged corruption.
