Nongpoh, Aug 19: The Ri Bhoi Youth Welfare Organisation (RBYWO) has flagged an inflated rate of land in Umtham proposed to be bought by the Meghalaya Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC).
According to the organisation, the Meghalaya Industrial Development & Finance Corporation plans to acquire 14 acres of land belonging to one Rick Kharkongor at Umtham amounting to Rs. 21 crore.
“If calculated, this would mean the government would be paying approximately Rs. 450 per square foot, whereas the prevailing market rate of land in the Umtham area is reportedly below Rs.150 per square foot,” RBYWO President Ban Kharnaior said.
Questioning why the MIDC is keen to purchase land in Umtham at an inflated rate despite being fully aware that land in the area can be procured at a much lower cost the organisation said, “This raises strong suspicion of possible irregularities and corruption in the proposed land deal. We believe this move amounts to a misuse and waste of public money.”
The organisation has also written to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on the matter and demanded an immediate stop to acquire the land before the government conducts a proper inquiry to ascertain the actual market value of the land in the area.
The RBYWO also urged authorities to take strict action against any officials involved in attempting to facilitate the purchase at such inflated rates and alleged that their actions point to corrupt practices and misuse of public funds.
