Itanagar 01, Dec 2023: The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has taken significant actions in response to the demands and representations submitted by the Pan Arunachal Joint Steering Committee (PAJSC) on October 3, 2023.

Mari Angu, Joint Secretary to the Government of Arunachal Pradesh, forwarded a comprehensive Action Taken Report to the Director (IPR) for public dissemination. This report addresses various concerns raised by the PAJSC, particularly regarding the APPSC paper leakage scandal and administrative reforms.

Key actions include:

Details of the action taken by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh in response to the representations made by the Pan Arunachal Joint Steering Committee (PAJSC), as per the document provided:

1. Investigation of APPSC Officials (2014-2022):
• The case pertaining to FIR No. RC 01/2022 and RC 01/2023, covering all exams conducted by APPSC from 2014 to 2022, has been handed over to the CBI.
2. Establishment of ED Office and Strengthening CBI:
• An Enforcement Directorate (ED) office is planned to be established in Itanagar.
• The State Government is supporting the CBI with increased manpower and resources.
3. Fast Track Court for APPSC Paper Leakage Scam:
• The District and Session Court, Yupia, has been designated as a special Fast Track Court for the APPSC paper leakage case.
4. State Administrative Tribunal:
• Establishment of a State Administrative Tribunal is being considered, although it falls outside the APPSC’s purview.
• The APPSC has its own grievance redressal team and plans to develop a Grievance Redressal Portal.
5. Endorsement of ED and Court Monitored Probes:
• A One-Man Inquiry Commission headed by Hon'ble Mr. Justice P K Deka (Retd.) has been constituted for inquiring into the allegations of paper leakages.
6. Departmental Enquiries and Dismissals:
• Several officials have been suspended or terminated, including those in prominent positions like Taket Jerang, Smit Opet Mibang, and Minoty Borang Saroh.
7. Disclosure of Departmental Enquiry Reports:
• The government has disclosed the status of various departmental inquiry reports against suspended or arrested officials.
8. 3 Members Committee Report:
• The 3 Member Committee's report investigating the examinations has been published on the official AR Department website.
9. Suspension of Upcoming Exams:
• All upcoming exams under APPSC have been suspended, with the UPSC endorsed to conduct future examinations until the investigation is complete.
10. Inclusion of Aspirants in SOP Preparation:
• The government is incorporating the feedback of aspirants in preparing the SOP for future examinations.
11. Whistleblower Act Legislation and Implementation:
• A 3-member committee was constituted to draft the Arunachal Pradesh Whistleblower Protection Act and Rules, 2023.
12. Justice for Miss Mudang Yabyang (PwD Candidate):
• The case of Miss Mudang Yabyang, a PwD candidate, has been addressed, and steps have been outlined for streamlining the selection criteria for PwD candidates.
13. Recalling of Officials from APPSC:
• The matter of recalling three officials from APPSC has been addressed, with two officials already reassigned.
14. Addressing Public Protests:
• The government has acknowledged the need to address the concerns of protestors from the public bandh-call in February 2023, and is considering requests for financial support through the Chief Minister's Relief Fund.

The Government's actions reflect a commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice, particularly in the context of the APPSC scandal and administrative reforms. The community awaits further developments as the investigations and reforms progress.

As the APPSC paper leakage saga continues to unfold in Arunachal Pradesh, the onus rests on both the government and the PAJSC to find common ground. The government's approach and the PAJSC's responses will not only shape the immediate resolution of this crisis but also set a precedent for handling future administrative challenges. It is imperative that both parties engage in constructive dialogue, keeping the larger interest of justice and transparency at the forefront. As this situation evolves, the eyes of the public remain fixed on these developments, hoping for a resolution that restores faith in the administrative systems of Arunachal Pradesh.