The recent controversy surrounding Padamjit Singh Mehta, the son of Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) President Amarjeet Mehta and a leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has brought to light allegations of impropriety in the leasing of prime land from the Bathinda unit of the Red Cross. The 11-acre property, located on the outskirts of the city near prestigious institutions like AIIMS and Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, was reportedly leased for a commercial project at nominal rates for a period of 30 years.
The decision to grant the land to Padamjit Singh Mehta has sparked protests from ’non-ex-officio members‘ of the Red Cross executive committee, who argue that the lease was awarded without following proper procedures. The property in question was originally donated to the Red Cross by a woman for the benefit of the general public, raising concerns about the transparency and fairness of the leasing process.
According to reports, Padamjit Singh Mehta has agreed to pay the Red Cross an annual fee of Rs 90,000 per acre, with a 15% increase every three years. The Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) overseeing the leasing process has stated that the land will be used for social and sporting events, including the establishment of a sports academy and counseling center.
While Padamjit Singh Mehta has indicated that the project will have a commercial focus and will be presented to Invest Punjab for approval, Amarjeet Mehta has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the venture. Despite assurances from officials that the property will be used for community-oriented activities, concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
Members of the Red Cross executive committee have expressed reservations about the leasing agreement, citing the discrepancy between the nominal rates charged and the market value of the land. They have also questioned the lack of information provided about the project and the absence of a public auction process for the land.
In response to the controversy, AAP politician and head of the District Planning Committee, Amrit Aggarwal, has stated that he was unaware of the reasons behind the land’s donation and the subsequent leasing arrangement. The lack of clarity surrounding the project has raised further questions about the motives behind the deal and the potential impact on the local community.
Overall, the leasing of the Red Cross property to Padamjit Singh Mehta for a commercial project has raised concerns about transparency, accountability, and fairness in the allocation of public resources. As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the authorities will address the allegations of impropriety and ensure that the interests of the public are protected.