Arunachal JAC announces July 6 protest over alleged Rs 277-crore fisheries scam

A Joint Action Committee (JAC) on June 30 announced a mass protest rally on July 6 over the alleged Rs 277-crore Fisheries Department scam, alleging a lack of progress in the investigation despite the registration of an FIR.

Addressing a press conference, members of the JAC called for transparency, accountability and a fair, impartial probe into the alleged financial irregularities. The committee urged the authorities to take appropriate action against those responsible in the interest of justice and good governance.

According to the JAC, the alleged scam involved the creation of "ghost ponds" and fictitious fisheries projects to fraudulently divert public funds.

JAC member Biki Tania Higang expressed dissatisfaction over what he described as the slow pace of the investigation, despite an FIR having already been registered in the case.

He said the committee had earlier submitted a memorandum to Chief Minister Pema Khandu, seeking a transparent investigation and action against those responsible. However, Higang alleged that there had been no response even after the expiry of a seven-day ultimatum issued by the committee.

The JAC also alleged that the slow progress of the investigation had raised questions and claimed that the involvement of senior functionaries, including the Chief Minister or the Deputy Chief Minister, could not be ruled out. However, no evidence was presented by the committee to substantiate this allegation, and there has been no official response from the state government to the claim.

The committee appealed to residents, particularly those from Kra Daadi district, to participate in the proposed protest rally, stating that it would be held from Akashdeep to IG Park in Itanagar on July 6.

The JAC said the demonstration aims to press for a speedy and transparent investigation into the alleged scam and accountability for the alleged misuse of public funds.