Arunachal CM Pema Khandu Orders Suspension of Reinstated Officials in APPSC Paper Leak Scam

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has announced that stringent actions against officials of the education department found to be involved in the paper leak scam through the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) would be undertaken.

In a press interaction at Pipsorang in the Kra Daadi district, the Chief Minister stated that all reinstated officials implicated in the scam would be suspended.

Khandu said although the reinstatement orders had been carried out following a court direction, the state government was observing the situation keenly. "I have instructed the chief secretary to suspend those officials involved in the paper leak scam," Khandu said while underlining zero tolerance for graft in public service recruitment.

"I agree there have been lapses, which they took advantage of. I have directed the education department to immediately submit the departmental inquiry committee's reports so that action can be taken," said the Chief Minister, admitting there were shortcomings in the education department which were exploited by those involved in the scandal.

This admission reflects the government's recognition of systemic issues within the department and its determination to address them comprehensively. Khandu reiterated his administration’s intent to take decisive measures to restore public trust in the education system and recruitment processes.

This recent furore, however, erupted with the suspension of Block Education Officers (BEOs) Iken Bagra and Posi Gamlin posted in West Siang district. Their reinstatement, as directed by the High Court, drew flak from all corners, raising eyebrows on the role of the judiciary in administrative matters.

Bagra and Gamlin, along with two other officials—Tanyang Gaduk and Radek Romin—had already been arrested and suspended for their alleged involvement in the APPSC paper leak scam. The scam had sent shockwaves through the state, leading to public outcry and demands for accountability.

Reinstatement and then suspension of the accused officials have once again raised debates about corruption and transparency in the public service sectors of Arunachal Pradesh. APPSC paper leak scam has exposed not only flaws in the recruitment process but also vulnerabilities in the education department.

In an attempt to be strict, Chief Minister Khandu wants the world to believe that the government means business. Suspended, all the involved officers, he thus takes one big step in reinstating people's confidence. This is where reforms should come to be in the system to ensure nothing of this kind happens in the future.

While awaiting reports from departmental inquiries, attention is bound to focus on steps the government might take in pursuing justice and accountability in strengthening Arunachal Pradesh's integrity for its public services.

ALSO READ:

ALSO WATCH: