Staff Reporter
ITANAGAR : The Arunachal Pradesh Tribal Movement (APTM) on Wednesday demanded an immediate, impartial and time-bound investigation into the alleged multi-crore Fisheries Department scam and sought stringent action against all those found involved.
Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club here, APTM president Likha Tolum alleged that financial irregularities amounting to more than ₹270 crore took place in the Fisheries Department between 2012 and 2017. He claimed that despite the seriousness of the allegations, the state government has not issued any clarification on the matter.
Tolum alleged that the government’s silence has raised concerns over its handling of the issue. He informed that the organisation has already submitted a representation to the state government seeking a comprehensive probe into the alleged irregularities.
He further said that two First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered in connection with the alleged scam—one in Lower Subansiri district and another in Kra Daadi district—but claimed that the progress of the investigations has not been made public.
“The people have the right to know the progress of the investigation. There must be transparency and accountability in the utilisation of public funds meant for development and public welfare,” Tolum said.
Alleging that the irregularities caused substantial loss to the state exchequer, the APTM demanded a fair, transparent and time-bound investigation and urged that all those found responsible be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Tolum said the organisation has also submitted a memorandum to Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu seeking a time-bound probe, strict legal action against the accused and systemic reforms to enhance transparency and accountability in government departments.
Warning of a democratic agitation if no concrete action is taken, he said the organisation is preparing to launch a peaceful movement and urged the state government to uphold its commitment to zero tolerance against corruption by ensuring a transparent and impartial investigation into the alleged scam.
