| Staff REPORTER |
ITANAGAR, May 4: The Arunachal Civil Society (ACS), led by its chairman Byabang Joram, on Monday began a three-day peaceful dharna at the tennis court of IG Park in Itanagar.
The protest is being held in support of the group’s demand for the temporary step-down of Chief Minister Pema Khandu to facilitate what it described as a “free and fair” inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the allegations of awarding contract works to his family firm worth Rs 1,270 crore over the past few years.
Speaking on the occasion, social activist Toko Sheetal said she joined the dharna voluntarily, supporting the demands raised by ACS. She stated that a fair investigation would be ensured if the Chief Minister steps aside during the course of the inquiry.
Protesters maintained that the Chief Minister should vacate the post for a specified period during the CBI probe to ensure impartiality.
The dharna is expected to continue for three days, with participants calling for transparency and accountability.