Guwahati: A Joint Action Committee (JAC) on Tuesday announced a mass protest rally in Itanagar on July 6, alleging a lack of progress in the investigation into the alleged Rs 277-crore Fisheries Department scam despite the registration of an FIR.
Addressing a press conference, JAC members demanded a transparent, impartial and time-bound investigation into the alleged financial irregularities and called for action against those found responsible.
The committee alleged that the scam involved the creation of “ghost ponds” and fictitious fisheries projects to siphon off public funds.
JAC member Biki Tania Higang expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as the slow pace of the investigation despite the registration of an FIR.
He said the committee had earlier submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Pema Khandu seeking a transparent probe and action against those responsible. According to Higang, the government has not responded despite the expiry of a seven-day ultimatum issued by the committee.
The JAC further claimed that the pace of the investigation had raised questions and alleged that the involvement of senior functionaries, including the Chief Minister or the Deputy Chief Minister, could not be ruled out. The committee, however, did not present any evidence to support the allegation, and the state government has not responded to the claim.
The committee appealed to the public, particularly residents of Kra Daadi district, to participate in the protest rally, which is scheduled to proceed from Akashdeep to IG Park in Itanagar.
It said the demonstration aims to press for a speedy and transparent investigation into the alleged scam and ensure accountability for the alleged misuse of public funds.