MNF and Congress Urge CBI Investigation into Alleged Land Scam in Mizoram Involving Rs 180 Crore

The Mizo National Front and Congress have requested a CBI investigation into an alleged land scam involving Rs 180 crore near Lengpui Airport. The acquisition process has raised concerns over financial irregularities and procedural bypassing under the current administration.

Mizoram's opposition parties, the Mizo National Front (MNF) and the Congress, have separately called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into a land acquisition controversy. The disputed land, valued at over Rs 180 crore, is near Mizoram's only airport in Lengpui, approximately 32 km from Aizawl. It was acquired by the Indian Air Force (IAF) for a base to house fighter aircraft and refueling facilities.

Allegations of financial misconduct have emerged, with claims that intermediaries received more money than the actual landowners. The MNF alleged that Rs 187.90 crore was paid to two individuals who did not own land in the area, while eight rightful owners received nothing. They accused the state government of dismantling legal protections under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Act, 2013.

Political Allegations and Counterclaims

The MNF submitted a petition to Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena, also the Chief Vigilance Officer, seeking a CBI probe into the deal. They claimed it was finalised under the current Zoram People's Movement (ZPM) administration led by Chief Minister Lalduhoma. The Congress filed its complaint directly with the central investigating agency in Aizawl.

Controversy surrounds the speed of the acquisition process, reportedly completed in just 70 days without public notice or opportunity for objections. The MNF alleged that legal procedures were bypassed to fast-track the acquisition. They also claimed that a Social Impact Assessment (SIA) was waived by the state revenue minister last May, which is not within state executive powers.

Response from ZPM Leadership

ZPM media cell chairman B Lalchhanzova, who is also the revenue minister, stated that party leaders decided to seek a CBI inquiry after a Council of Ministers meeting on Wednesday. He emphasised that this step aims to ensure transparency and maintain public trust. A formal First Information Report (FIR) will be lodged with the CBI on Friday.

Lalchhanzova countered by accusing the previous MNF administration of attempting to sell the land to the IAF without adhering to standard leasing protocols. He cited official correspondence from February 2019 to October 2021 as evidence that they sought an outright purchase agreement, allegedly ignoring protective land laws.

Accusations Against Former Officials

The minister specifically accused former Chief Minister Zoramthanga and ex-revenue minister Lalruatkima of involvement in earlier processes. He claimed that the current ZPM government followed all legal procedures while completing the transfer initiated by their predecessors.

The representation alleged a deliberate operation designed to siphon off Rs 187.9 crore in public funds. This has sparked counter-allegations across political lines due to questionable financial transactions and alleged haste in finalising the process.

This situation has led to heightened political tensions in Mizoram as both parties continue to exchange accusations over this contentious land deal.

With inputs from PTI