Corruption regarding land is the second highest form of corruption next to corruption in resources. This has been reflected in the Anti-Corruption Commission Report 2012, which was deliberated in the National Council today.
The highest number of corruption-related complaints was received from Thimphu Dzongkhag. Some of the members pointed out that there might be flaws in the implementation of laws by related agencies, which allowed such corruption to happen. The members also pointed out that misuse of government land was happening across the country, and investigation must be carried out in all cases to reduce land corruption.
“Thimphu has been the most corrupt but this is because of the increasing land prices. I would request if ACC would be able to carry similar investigations in all other Dzongkhags, also with help from the media,” said Thimphu representative, Nima Gyeltshen.
The Wangdue Phodrang representative, Tashi Dorji, said since the ACC has started doing the investigations “now they should do it in other Dzongkhags also. Even if they can’t do it in all Dzongkhags, they should first start with the Thromdes.”
Bumthang member, Nima, said that ACC must be given full support to help stop the misuse of government land.
Some of the complaints on land were on the illegal transfer of land, abuse of functions by land administration officials and local leaders, and encroachment onto government land, among others.
The House decided to review the performance audit report and continue discussion on land issues only in their next session.
