CBI Faces Challenges in Arunachal Pradesh Investigation into Contract Irregularities

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has reported difficulties in its inquiry into alleged irregularities in public works contracts in Arunachal Pradesh, citing non-cooperation from the state government. The Supreme Court has intervened, demanding explanations from key officials regarding their lack of compliance. The investigation focuses on contracts reportedly awarded to firms connected to Chief Minister Pema Khandu's relatives. This situation has drawn criticism from opposition parties, highlighting concerns over accountability in public service. As the court proceedings unfold, the implications for governance and integrity in Arunachal Pradesh remain significant.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 3, 2026, 16:07 IST

Investigation into Alleged Contract Misconduct

Arunachal CM Pema Khandu discussing development initiatives in his state (Photo: @NITIAayog/X)

New Delhi, Aug 3: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) reported to the Supreme Court on Monday that it has encountered "non-cooperation" from the Arunachal Pradesh government while attempting to gather documents for its preliminary inquiry into alleged irregularities in public works contract allocations.

The agency indicated that these contracts were purportedly awarded to companies owned by or associated with relatives of Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

In response to the CBI's status report, a bench consisting of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta issued notices to the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary (Home) of Arunachal Pradesh, requesting their explanations.

The court instructed both officials to appear on August 24 to clarify the alleged lack of cooperation and failure to comply with previous directives.

On April 6, the Supreme Court had mandated the CBI to initiate a preliminary inquiry within two weeks regarding claims of preferential contract allotments in Arunachal Pradesh to firms allegedly linked to the Chief Minister's family.

The apex court emphasized that state entities cannot grant benefits based on the "whims of any political or administrative figure," asserting the need for an "independent investigation."

The court's ruling stated that the preliminary inquiry and any subsequent investigation should encompass the awarding and execution of public works contracts from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2025, including relevant works and records presented in the proceedings.

This ruling stemmed from a petition filed by NGOs Save Mon Region Federation and Voluntary Arunachal Sena, which sought a CBI or SIT investigation into the allegations.

In light of the recent developments, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh remarked, "This was anticipated. On April 6, 2026, the Supreme Court independently ordered a CBI investigation into PWD contracts awarded by the PWD Minister to his relatives."

Ramesh pointed out that the PWD minister in Arunachal Pradesh is the Chief Minister himself, who remains in office, highlighting the Prime Minister's alleged lack of commitment to accountability and integrity in public service.

The opposition party also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the Supreme Court's summons for the Arunachal Pradesh chief secretary to appear on August 24 regarding the CBI's claims of non-cooperation from the state government in its investigation into allegations against Chief Minister Pema Khandu's relatives.