Allegations of illegal land acquisition by KIIT University surface

Amid the ongoing controversies, allegations surfaced concerning the dubious methods employed by the KIIT University, Bhubaneswar to acquire substantial land parcels at minimal costs, allegedly with the backing of now Opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD)-led government.

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The accusations arise from Right to Information (RTI) activists who claim that KIIT forcibly acquired properties earmarked for allocation by the Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO).

Know how political connections were leveraged

The controversy stems from a purported letter dated March 31, 2008, which allegedly details the modus operandi of land acquisition by KIIT authorities. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) had previously noted similar discrepancies in transactions concerning KIIT. The issue was also raised during Legislative Assembly discussions in 2014.

Official records show that only 7 acres were allocated to KIIT by IDCO. However, KIIT had obtained 89 acres of land in 2012, of which findings from RTI inquiries assert that 82 acres were illegally acquired and subsequently regularised.

Criticism is directed towards former MP Achyuta Samanta, KIIT’s founder, and his associates for allegedly leveraging political connections to streamline these transactions. Accusations entail obtaining forest and industrial land under pretense, resulting in alleged financial losses for the State.

The activities are said to have persisted despite government awareness.

Responding to the fresh allegations, Industry Minister Sampad Chandra Swain pledged a comprehensive probe into all charges. The core of the claims suggests that KIIT University manipulated IDCO procedures to secure large parcels of government-owned land.

Minister Swain has reiterated that any instance of corruption found will undergo a thorough examination and will not be condoned.

Must Read: KIIT University ‘attempted to suppress the matter’!

“A high-level committee led by ACS, Home Department is probing into all accusations. This Government is a people’s government and no sort of corruption will be tolerated. After an inquiry report comes in, actions will be taken accordingly,” the Minister asserted.

Despite attempts, comments from KIIT authorities in this regard could not be obtained.