Did the ED File a Charge Sheet in the Alleged Misappropriation of Funds for the Gauhati HC's Kohima Bench Complex?
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Synopsis
The Enforcement Directorate has filed a charge sheet against key individuals for alleged financial misconduct related to the construction of the Gauhati High Court complex in Kohima. This serious matter raises significant questions about accountability within public works and corruption in government contracts.
Key Takeaways
- ED filed charge sheet under PMLA.
- Allegations of misappropriation of public funds.
- Involvement of Nagaland PWD officials.
- Significant excess payments identified.
- Investigation initiated by CBI on High Court's directive.
Kohima, Jan 16 (NationPress) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has submitted a charge sheet to the Special Court under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Dimapur regarding the alleged misappropriation of public funds and substandard construction of the new Gauhati High Court complex located in Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, according to sources from the central investigation agency on Friday.
The ED’s Dimapur Sub-Zonal Office has presented a charge sheet to the PMLA Special Court in Dimapur concerning Avituo Sekhose, M/s Hexad Syndicate, Thepfusatuo Rio, Mhalelie Rio, and Vibeilietuo Kets on December 29, 2025, under the stipulations of the PMLA, 2002.
The court acknowledged the charge sheet on January 12, 2026.
The central agency stated that the ED launched the investigation based on an FIR filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Imphal Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB) on June 17, 2019.
This case was initiated by the CBI following directives from the Kohima bench of the Gauhati High Court in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding the alleged misappropriation of public money and the substandard construction work of the new High Court Complex in Kohima.
The FIR was lodged for violations of various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and multiple sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, specifically accusing government officials of the Nagaland Public Works Department (PWD) of engaging in a criminal conspiracy with contractors to misappropriate taxpayer funds during the construction of the new High Court complex.
The ED’s investigation under the PMLA revealed that Nagaland PWD officials had fraudulently inflated construction costs related to two retaining walls at the new High Court complex, resulting in an excess payment of approximately Rs 80.25 lakh to contractor Avituo Sekhose.
Furthermore, the costs associated with the construction of the road and footpath for the High Court complex, featuring chequered tiles, were also inflated as part of a conspiracy between government contractors and Nagaland PWD officials, leading to an additional payment of nearly Rs 29.68 lakh to M/s Hexad Syndicate and its partners Thepfusatuo Rio, Mhalelie Rio, and Vibeilietuo Kets.
The identified proceeds of crime in this case amount to nearly Rs 1.09 crore.
During the investigation, the ED issued a provisional attachment order totaling Rs 96.67 lakh.
The findings have indicated the involvement of several Nagaland PWD officials, resulting in significant losses to the public treasury.
Point of View
It is vital to approach this matter with utmost seriousness. The allegations of public fund misappropriation by government officials highlight systemic issues that require transparency and accountability. The involvement of high-ranking officials in such misconduct must be addressed to restore public trust and ensure responsible governance.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main allegation in the ED's charge sheet?
The ED's charge sheet alleges misappropriation of public funds and substandard construction of the Gauhati High Court complex in Kohima.
Who are the individuals named in the charge sheet?
The individuals named include Avituo Sekhose, M/s Hexad Syndicate, Thepfusatuo Rio, Mhalelie Rio, and Vibeilietuo Kets.
What laws are being cited in this case?
The case is filed under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) and involves violations of the Indian Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act.
What was the basis for the ED's investigation?
The investigation was initiated based on an FIR registered by the CBI on directives from the Kohima bench of the Gauhati High Court.
What financial implications are being investigated?
The investigation has identified proceeds of crime amounting to nearly Rs 1.09 crore and has resulted in a provisional attachment order of Rs 96.67 lakh.
