Aizawl, Feb 17: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Monday stated that he would resign immediately if any evidence proves his involvement in alleged financial irregularities in the Lengpui airport land deal.

Responding to opposition accusations of receiving kickbacks, Lalduhoma challenged critics to provide proof. “If my involvement is verified with evidence, I will no longer consider myself fit to lead this state and will resign,” he said in a local TV interview.

The controversy began after Congress leader and former minister John Rotluangliana alleged on February 13 that Lalduhoma had received Rs 10 crore from a Rs 14 crore commission, reportedly demanding payment in gold. Lalduhoma dismissed the claims as baseless and harmful to his reputation and that of the ruling Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM).

He added that the previous Mizo National Front (MNF) government under Zoramthanga had attempted to sell the land near Lengpui airport, 32 km from Aizawl, to the Indian Air Force (IAF) through a direct purchase. Lalduhoma clarified that his administration is only facilitating a standard lease agreement between the landowner and the IAF for a base with fighter aircraft and refueling facilities.

The MNF and Congress have filed separate complaints alleging irregularities worth Rs 187.90 crore, including bypassed procedures and payments to non-original landowners. A CBI official confirmed that the case has been referred to the agency’s Imphal branch for investigation.