Itanagar, May 6: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has firmly denied allegations of corruption in public works contracts, following the Supreme Court’s directive for a preliminary inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

“I am innocent,” Khandu declared while addressing the media, assuring that his government would extend full cooperation to the CBI in uncovering the facts. The apex court ordered the inquiry after petitions alleged that contracts between 2015 and 2025 were awarded to firms linked to Khandu’s family members. The CBI has been tasked with submitting a status report within 16 weeks.

The directive comes amid a three-day sit-in protest in Itanagar led by Arunachal Civil Society President Byabang Joram, demanding Khandu’s resignation to ensure impartiality in the investigation. Responding to the protest, Khandu emphasized the importance of democratic rights, urging that dissent be expressed ethically and non-violently.

Recounting earlier proceedings, Khandu noted that he had not engaged personal legal representation when the matter was previously before the Supreme Court, stating his confidence in his innocence. He Emphasized his decade-long efforts to combat corruption, citing reforms and development initiatives as evidence of his government’s integrity.

While welcoming the CBI inquiry, Khandu alleged that the case was politically motivated but reiterated his commitment to cooperate fully. The petitions, filed by Save Mon Region Federation and Voluntary Arunachal Sena, claim that contracts were directed to companies owned by Khandu’s relatives, including his late father Dorjee Khandu’s second wife, Rinchin Drema, and his nephew, Tsering Tashi. Drema’s firm, Brand Eagles, was cited as having received a significant share of government contracts.

The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores concerns of conflict of interest and potential misuse of authority, with petitioners arguing that such large-scale favoritism could not have occurred without ministerial involvement.