A political controversy has erupted in Arunachal Pradesh as protesters led by the Arunachal Civil Society (ACS) have demanded that Chief Minister Pema Khandu step aside while a corruption probe is underway. The agitation follows a Supreme Court order directing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct a preliminary inquiry into allegations linked to public works contracts involving members of his family over the past decade.

The protests intensified after the court’s directive, with demonstrators arguing that the presence of a sitting chief minister during an ongoing investigation could compromise fairness. ACS members said their demand is aimed at ensuring transparency and preventing any perceived influence over the probe, stressing that public trust in the process must be preserved.

Addressing the issue, ACS Chairman Byabang Joram said a fair investigation would not be possible if Khandu continues in office during the CBI inquiry. The group maintained that their agitation is not politically driven but focused on accountability and due process. They further clarified that if the probe finds no wrongdoing, the Chief Minister should continue in his position without obstruction.

Also Read: CBI Gets Two Weeks to Begin Probe into Arunachal Contracts Linked to CM Khandu's Family

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu has strongly denied all allegations of corruption and dismissed the charges against him. He reiterated that he has no involvement in the matter and welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to initiate a preliminary CBI inquiry. Khandu also assured full cooperation from the state government, stating that the truth will eventually come out.

“The truth will come out — ‘doodh ka doodh, paani ka paani ho jayega,’” Khandu said on Tuesday, using the expression to emphasise his confidence in being cleared of wrongdoing. He maintained that his administration would fully support the investigation process and allow it to proceed without interference.The case has now placed the state’s political environment under heightened scrutiny, as both the ruling leadership and civil society groups await the outcome of the CBI’s preliminary findings.

Also Read: CBI Gets Two Weeks to Begin Probe into Arunachal Contracts Linked to CM Khandu's Family