Mizoram MP Urges Amit Shah for Central Probe into Rs 188 Crore Land Scandal
In a significant development concerning alleged corruption in Mizoram, the state's lone Rajya Sabha member, K Vanlalvena, has formally requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah to order an investigation by a central agency into the controversial acquisition of land near Aizawl. The opposition leader, who heads the Mizo National Front (MNF), made this urgent appeal on Friday, citing serious concerns about the misuse of public funds meant for welfare purposes.
Parliamentary Attempt and Direct Appeal
Vanlalvena revealed to media sources that he had initially attempted to raise this critical issue during the Zero Hour in Parliament but was unable to do so due to procedural constraints. "This unfortunate situation has compelled me to write directly to the Union home minister," he stated, emphasizing the gravity of the matter that demands immediate central intervention.
Details of the Alleged Land Scam
In his detailed letter to Amit Shah, the MP outlined specific allegations regarding land purchases in the Lengpui area near Mizoram's only airport. According to Vanlalvena, the state government acquired lands near Lengpui Airport and Sihphir village near Aizawl, purportedly for establishing air defense systems by the Indian Air Force. However, these acquisitions were made at exorbitantly inflated rates that blatantly violate The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act of 2013.
The MP's letter makes the serious allegation that public money totaling over Rs 187.9 crore may have been laundered through various intermediaries in this transaction. "Given the gravity of the matter, accountability must be ensured and those responsible brought to justice," Vanlalvena asserted in his communication to the Home Minister, highlighting what he describes as clear evidence of corruption and collusion between officials and political executives.
Political Developments and CBI Involvement
Meanwhile, the ruling Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) government has withdrawn its earlier plan to lodge a complaint with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) after the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) filed a First Information Report (FIR) with the agency's Aizawl office. State Information & Public Relations Minister B Lalchhanzova clarified that the ZPM now hopes the state government will grant consent for a CBI probe if the central agency agrees to investigate the matter.
In a related development, Chief Minister Lalduhoma has categorically denied any personal involvement in the alleged scam, while the MNF has submitted a formal representation to Chief Secretary Khilli Ran Meena, who serves as the chief vigilance officer, urging him to grant consent for a comprehensive CBI inquiry into the land scandal that allegedly involves "political executives and powerful bureaucrats."
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigations
Earlier this week, the state Lokayukta registered a formal case after taking cognizance of the corruption allegations related to the Indian Air Force land deal. This development adds another layer to the ongoing scrutiny of the controversial transaction that has raised questions about transparency and accountability in Mizoram's governance.
The case represents one of the most significant corruption allegations in recent Mizoram history, with multiple political parties now calling for thorough investigations by central agencies to ensure that public funds are properly accounted for and that any wrongdoing is appropriately addressed through legal channels.
