Land Purchase Embezzlements by Indian Missions Abroad

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India has launched an investigation into reports of the purchase of land at inflated prices by its missions abroad. It is regarding the excessive amounts spent on acquiring real estate, with some transactions reportedly reaching two to three times the market price. The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) initially flagged these deals, prompting further scrutiny by the ministry.

According to details, a team from the CAG visited a country where the Indian embassy had acquired land and discovered serious violations of norms. The money spent on purchasing the land was found to be more than double the prevailing market price, indicating potential irregularities in the transactions. Similar cases from other countries have also come to the attention of the MEA, prompting a broader investigation into the matter.

The ministry is now delving into the details of these transactions and examining the possible involvement of officers from South Block, the administrative headquarters of the MEA in New Delhi. The probe aims to ascertain the reasons behind the inflated prices paid for the land and to determine the misconduct or negligence that occurred during the acquisition process.

The allegations of overpriced land purchases by Indian missions abroad raise concerns about financial mismanagement and possible corruption within the MEA. Such transactions must be conducted transparently and by established norms and procedures of the host countries. The embezzlements emphasize India’s misappropriation of accountability and diplomatic operations abroad.