Meghalaya: NPP MP WR Kharlukhi files FIR against YouTuber over corruption allegations

SHILLONG: WR Kharlukhi, a Rajya Sabha MP from Meghalaya representing the National People's Party (NPP), has lodged a formal complaint against a YouTuber named RS Kharbani for making allegations of corruption in the implementation of the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS).

In a statement on Thursday (June 20), Kharlukhi vehemently denied the allegations and asserted his willingness to cooperate with any investigation into the matter.

“I have filed a complaint with the cybercrime police station against YouTuber RS Kharbani for accusing me of corruption and suggesting malpractice in the implementation of my MP scheme,” the Rajya Sabha MP from Meghalaya said.

The MP further stated his readiness to resign from his position if any corruption is proven.

“If anyone can provide evidence that I have taken any amount improperly, I will personally request a CBI inquiry and am prepared to face legal consequences, including imprisonment,” he asserted.

Kharlukhi warned of defamation lawsuits against those attempting to tarnish his reputation.

“I am an open book with three bank accounts. I am willing to undergo any investigation by law enforcement agencies,” the Rajya Sabha MP from Meghalaya said.

“I am nearing the end of my political career, and these allegations have surfaced. Therefore, I feel it's necessary to clarify my position because I am open to scrutiny at any time.”

Regarding the status of his MP scheme, Kharlukhi explained the procedural changes between 2022-2023 and 2023-2024.

He outlined that while the MPLADS funds for 2022-2023 were recommended during the COVID-19 pandemic and disbursed later, the system shifted in 2023-2024 to direct allocation from Parliament to district officers and block development officers (BDOs).

“I have fully utilized the Rs 5 crore allocated under the MPLADS for 2022-2023, and for 2023-2024, the funds have now reached the beneficiaries after delays due to the recent Lok Sabha elections,” he clarified.