In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India on Monday directed the Central Bureau of Investigation to initiate a preliminary inquiry into alleged irregularities in the allotment of public works contracts in Arunachal Pradesh. The move has brought national attention to the Arunachal Pradesh Contract Probe 2026, which involves firms reportedly linked to Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
Court Seeks Report Within Two Weeks
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sandeep Mehta, and N V Anjaria directed the investigative agency to submit its preliminary findings within two weeks. The court further clarified that the probe should cover all public works contracts and related orders issued between January 2015 and December 2025.
The directive marks a crucial step in the ongoing Arunachal Pradesh Contract Probe 2026, as the apex court seeks to ensure transparency and accountability in the matter.
Allegations Raised by NGOs
The case stems from a petition filed by two NGOs—Save Mon Region Federation and Voluntary Arunachal Sena—represented by advocate Prashant Bhushan. The petition alleges that four firms linked to relatives of the Chief Minister were awarded contracts worth approximately ₹1,260 crore over the past decade.
According to the petitioners, around ₹1,245 crore worth of contracts were awarded through tenders, while an additional ₹25 crore was granted via work orders. These claims form the core of the Arunachal Pradesh Contract Probe 2026, raising concerns over potential favoritism and conflict of interest.
State Government Denies Allegations
The Arunachal Pradesh government has strongly refuted the allegations, describing the case as “sponsored litigation.” Officials have maintained that all procedures were followed as per rules and that the claims are politically motivated.
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Despite the denial, the Arunachal Pradesh Contract Probe 2026 has gained traction, with calls for an impartial investigation growing louder.
Demand for Independent Investigation
During the hearing, petitioners argued that the questioned contracts account for roughly three per cent of the total government work awarded during the period. They emphasized the need for an independent probe, stating that a state-level investigation may lack impartiality.
With the Supreme Court now stepping in, the Arunachal Pradesh Contract Probe 2026 is set to be closely watched in the coming weeks, as the CBI begins its inquiry and prepares to submit its report.
The outcome of this probe could have significant political and administrative implications, making it one of the most important legal developments in recent times.