Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has strongly denied allegations of financial irregularities linked to the Lengpui airport land deal. He said he would resign immediately if anyone produces credible evidence proving his involvement.
Speaking in a local television interview on Monday, Lalduhoma rejected accusations that he received kickbacks in the transaction. “If my involvement is verified with evidence, I will no longer consider myself fit to lead this state and will resign,” he stated.
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Congress Leader Alleges Rs 10 Crore Kickback
The controversy erupted after senior Congress leader and former minister John Rotluangliana alleged on February 13 that Lalduhoma received Rs 10 crore from a total commission of Rs 14 crore. He further claimed that the Chief Minister demanded the amount in gold.
Lalduhoma dismissed the allegations as baseless and politically motivated. He said the charges damage not only his personal reputation but also the credibility of the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM).
Government Clarifies Nature of Land Deal
The Chief Minister clarified that his government is not selling land near Lengpui airport. Instead, it is facilitating a standard lease agreement between the landowner and the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The land, located about 32 kilometres from Aizawl, has strategic importance. According to Lalduhoma, the IAF plans to establish a base with fighter aircraft and refuelling facilities. He said his administration is ensuring that the lease process follows established procedures.
Lalduhoma also pointed to the previous government led by Zoramthanga of the Mizo National Front (MNF). He alleged that the earlier administration had attempted to sell the land directly to the IAF through outright purchase. His government, he said, opted for a lease arrangement instead of a sale.
Opposition Files Complaints
Both the MNF and the Congress have filed separate complaints alleging large-scale irregularities in the transaction. They claim the deal involves irregularities amounting to Rs 187.90 crore. The complaints also allege that authorities bypassed established procedures and made payments to individuals who were not the original landowners.
A Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) official confirmed that authorities have referred the case to the agency’s Imphal branch for further investigation. The probe will examine the allegations and verify the claims made by opposition parties.
Political Tensions Rise
The issue has intensified political tensions in Mizoram. Opposition leaders have demanded transparency and accountability from the government. Meanwhile, the ruling ZPM has defended Lalduhoma and described the allegations as an attempt to tarnish the government’s image.
The Chief Minister reiterated that he has nothing to hide. He urged his critics to present concrete proof instead of making public accusations. “I am ready to step down the moment any evidence proves my wrongdoing,” he said.
As the CBI begins its inquiry, the outcome of the investigation could have significant political implications for the state. For now, Lalduhoma remains firm in his denial and has staked his position on the findings of the probe.
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