Mizoram Chief Minister’s adviser, TBC Lalvenchhunga, on Monday denied allegations that the state government intends to transfer Lengpui Airport to the Indian Air Force (IAF). He clarified that the government’s goal is to enhance and expand the airport while ensuring it remains accessible to the public.

Lalvenchhunga explained that the state is implementing significant administrative reforms to improve governance and that substantial financial support has been received from the central government.

Addressing the ongoing controversy, Lalvenchhunga rejected claims that the airport would be entirely handed over to the IAF, emphasizing that such a move was never part of the government’s plan. He revealed that consultations had been held with experts, including Wing Commander J. Lallhmingliana, one of the first individuals approached by the government. However, Lalvenchhunga expressed disappointment over Lallhmingliana’s public criticism, which seemed to contradict their earlier discussions.

The CM’s adviser also highlighted that those opposing IAF involvement had previously allocated 32 acres of land for a jet fighter facility in 2011. He added that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) had submitted a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022, but the previous MNF-led administration had not finalized it.

Lalvenchhunga reassured the public that the current government is not planning to sell or transfer the airport, but instead exploring ways to develop it in collaboration with the IAF while maintaining its accessibility for the public.