Mizoram MP writes to Prez & PM, seeks probe into land scam

Aizawl: Mizoram Rajya Sabha MP K Vanlalvena on Saturday submitted a representation to President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking directions for a comprehensive inquiry by central investigative agencies into alleged large-scale corruption in land acquisition at Lengpui.Vanlalvena urged Murmu and Modi to ensure that "those responsible for gross violation of law and trust must be held accountable without delay, and exemplary action must be taken to restore integrity in public administration."He alleged that land near Lengpui airport and Sihphir in Aizawl district was acquired by the Mizoram govt, purportedly for establishing air defence systems for the Indian Air Force, at “exorbitant and unjustifiable rates,” in violation of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013."The people of Mizoram stand firmly in support of national security and development initiatives. However, we shall never allow our soils to be turned into a breeding ground for corruption by unscrupulous elements. Transparency, justice and accountability must prevail," the MP wrote.He claimed public money of over Rs 187.90 crore “appears to have been siphoned off through dubious intermediaries,” alleging a nexus of corruption and collusion.

"The scale of this malpractice is alarming. 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," he said.Vanlalvena’s party, Mizo National Front (MNF), on Thursday submitted a representation to chief secretary Khilli Ran Meena, who is also the chief vigilance officer, seeking consent for a CBI probe into the alleged land scam involving “political executives and powerful bureaucrats.”Separately, the Vigilance Cell of the Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) urged CM Lalduhoma to publicly release the names of people who allegedly received payoffs and kickbacks from Henry Lalremsanga Hlawnmual, who it said received Rs. 117.90 crore despite not owning land in the Lengpui village area acquired for the IAF.In a letter to the CM, the MPCC Vigilance Cell said Rohmingliana, who it said purchased land from original owners, received Rs 70 crore, while Hlawnmual received Rs. 117.90 crore, “reportedly revealed as to be distributed to the people in power.”The MPCC Vigilance Cell also urged the CM to grant general consent to the CBI to investigate. The MPCC on Thursday filed an FIR at the CBI site office in Aizawl.