PIL Seeks Transparency: Contracts and Controversies in Arunachal Pradesh

The Supreme Court has delayed a hearing on a public interest litigation demanding a CBI or SIT investigation into allegations that government contracts in Arunachal Pradesh are being systematically awarded to firms owned by Chief Minister Pema Khandu's family. The plea flags a conflict of interest, urging transparency.

The Supreme Court will defer to February the hearing of a PIL that calls for a CBI or SIT probe into government contracts awarded to family-owned firms of Arunachal Pradesh's Chief Minister Pema Khandu. This move comes amid accusations of favoritism and conflicts of interest.

Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, representing the petitioner NGOs, stressed the urgency of the matter, alleging that state-run projects are managed like private businesses. Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar presided over the bench that will review the plea and consider the allegations.

The plea highlights the role of family members in securing contracts, notably in flood restoration works, questioning the governance principles and transparency. All eyes remain on the court's upcoming session to see what measures will be taken.

(With inputs from agencies.)