Guwahati: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Tuesday said he supports the recent move by the Supreme Court of India to have the Central Bureau of Investigation examine a case connected to his government.
He said the state authorities are prepared to assist the central agency at every stage of the process. Denying any irregularities, Khandu added that the exercise would help clear long-standing doubts surrounding the issue.
Referring to the background of the case, he said it relates to developments from many years ago and has repeatedly come into discussion. He expressed hope that the probe would lay out the facts clearly and address the allegations.
The Chief Minister also said the investigation offers him an opportunity to put forward his position. He added that he has confidence in the judicial system and believes the outcome will reflect the truth.
The development follows an order issued on April 6 by the Supreme Court of India, asking the Central Bureau of Investigation to carry out an initial review of claims related to the awarding of government contracts in the state. The accusations involve firms said to have links with members of the Chief Minister’s family.
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N V Anjaria has asked the agency to submit its findings within 16 weeks, after which it will be decided whether a full investigation is required.
According to the plea, one instance involves a construction company believed to be connected to Khandu’s wife, while another concerns a firm reportedly associated with his nephew, Tsering Tashi. It alleges that proper procedures may not have been strictly followed during the tender process.
The petition, submitted in 2024, had requested an independent investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation or a Special Investigation Team, raising concerns about possible preferential treatment in awarding major public works.