Aizawl: The Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) government on Saturday levelled serious allegations against the previous Mizo National Front (MNF) administration, claiming it attempted to sell state land to the Indian Air Force (IAF) rather than follow standard leasing protocols.
Revenue Minister B. Lalchhanzova, speaking during a press briefing at the Aizawl Press Club, stated that the current administration is prepared to recommend a CBI investigation if the opposition disputes the findings.
The dispute centers on land in Lengpui and Sihphir. Lalchhanzova alleged that a review of official correspondence between February 2019 and October 2021 shows the MNF government sought an “outright purchase” agreement with the IAF.
The Minister noted that these negotiations appeared to ignore established protective laws, including the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) Act of 1873 and the Mizoram Land Revenue Act of 2013, which govern how state land is partitioned and used.
“This government is processing this land through the proper Acquisition Act,” Lalchhanzova said, contrasting his administration’s approach with the previous one. “This ensures the land is leased or acquired legally rather than sold permanently.”
The Minister named several high-profile members of the previous government as having been involved in the process, including former Chief Minister Zoramthanga and former Revenue Minister Lalruatkima.
According to government records cited by Lalchhanzova, former Planning Board Vice Chairman H. Rammawi allegedly pressured the Deputy Commissioner of Aizawl to accelerate the land transfer.
The allegations represent a significant escalation in the ongoing political friction between the ZPM and MNF. Lalchhanzova challenged the opposition to come clean, asserting that Chief Minister Lalduhoma’s administration has acted with “total integrity.”
He urged officials to provide the public with the “hidden facts” of the negotiations, suggesting that the current government is ready to face any legal scrutiny if their claims are proven false.