A Joint Action Committee (JAC) on Tuesday announced that it will hold a mass protest rally in Itanagar on July 6, demanding a speedy and transparent investigation into the alleged Rs 277-crore scam in the Fisheries Department. Addressing a press conference, members of the committee alleged that there had been little progress in the investigation despite the registration of a First Information Report (FIR). They called for transparency, accountability and an impartial probe into the alleged financial irregularities, urging the authorities to take appropriate action against those found responsible. According to the JAC, the alleged scam involved the creation of “ghost ponds” and fictitious fisheries projects to fraudulently divert public funds. The committee said a thorough investigation was necessary to establish accountability and restore public confidence.
JAC member Biki Tania Higang expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as the slow pace of the investigation. He said the committee had earlier submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Pema Khandu seeking a fair and transparent inquiry into the matter and action against those responsible. Higang alleged that there had been no response from the government even after the expiry of a seven-day ultimatum issued by the committee. He said the lack of visible progress had raised concerns among members of the JAC and the public. The committee further claimed that the slow pace of the investigation had given rise to several questions. It alleged that the involvement of senior functionaries, including the Chief Minister or the Deputy Chief Minister, could not be ruled out. However, the committee did not present any evidence to support the allegation, and there has been no official response from the state government to the claim.
The JAC appealed to people across the state, particularly residents of Kra Daadi district, to participate in the protest rally. According to the organisers, the march will begin from Akashdeep and proceed to IG Park in Itanagar on July 6.The committee said the demonstration is intended to press for a fair, impartial and time-bound investigation into the alleged scam and to ensure accountability for the alleged misuse of public funds. It maintained that the protest would remain peaceful and urged citizens to extend their support in the interest of transparency and good governance.
