Protesters Demand Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu Step Aside Amid CBI Corruption Probe
Itanagar: Civil society groups in Arunachal Pradesh have intensified calls for Chief Minister Pema Khandu to temporarily step down as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) conducts a preliminary inquiry into serious corruption allegations involving contracts allegedly awarded to his family-linked companies.
The demands gained momentum following a directive from the Supreme Court, which ordered the CBI to examine claims that firms connected to Khandu’s relatives secured public works contracts worth approximately ₹1,270 crore between January 2015 and December 2025. The allegations centre on potential conflicts of interest, with reports suggesting that companies linked to Khandu’s father’s second wife and a nephew benefited from government projects.
The Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) organised a three-day peaceful dharna in Itanagar, urging the Chief Minister to resign or step aside during the investigation to ensure its fairness and prevent any possible influence. ACS Chairman Byabang Joram led the protest, emphasising that a sitting Chief Minister should not remain in office while facing such scrutiny. Other organisations, including the Jan Andolan Anti-Corruption Movement, have echoed these demands.
Addressing the growing protests, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has firmly denied any wrongdoing. He described himself as “innocent” and expressed full confidence in the CBI’s process, stating that the inquiry would separate facts from falsehoods — “doodh ka doodh, paani ka paani”. Khandu has pledged complete cooperation with the investigating agency and highlighted his government’s efforts to curb corruption during his tenure. He also acknowledged the right to peaceful protest in a democracy.
The CBI has been given 16 weeks to complete its preliminary inquiry and submit a report on whether a full-fledged independent investigation is warranted. The development has sparked intense political debate in the state, with opposition voices and civil society groups demanding greater accountability and transparency in governance.
This remains a fast-developing story as protests continue and the CBI inquiry progresses. The outcome of the preliminary probe is expected to have significant political implications for the ruling government in Arunachal Pradesh.
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