Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday delivered a strong message against corruption, calling on community-based organisations (CBOs) to lead a collective movement for transparency and accountability in the state’s development journey.

Speaking at the 14th General Conference of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) at Koloriang in Kurung Kumey district, Khandu voiced serious concern over alleged large-scale irregularities in land compensation for the Lada–Sarli stretch of the Frontier Highway in East Kameng district. Preliminary findings, he said, indicate “massive misuse” of public funds.

“Whose money is it? It belongs to the taxpayers of this country. The Government of India invests thousands of crores for Arunachal’s development, and we cannot allow a few individuals to derail progress because of greed,” he said, warning that strict action would be taken against those found guilty.

Describing the Frontier Highway as a transformative project for the frontier regions, the Chief Minister regretted that “the actions of a few” had delayed its execution. He appealed to the NES to spearhead a strong, statewide campaign against corruption and the growing “money culture”.

Khandu also urged the CBOs, NGOs and student bodies to raise awareness against electoral malpractices, particularly in view of the approaching Panchayat and Municipal elections.

The Chief Minister reminded that as the apex body of the state’s largest tribe, the NES carries a “big brother” responsibility in guiding and uniting Arunachal’s 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes.

“In a state as diverse as ours, organisations like NES are crucial to strengthening unity in diversity – our greatest strength,” he said.

The Chief Minister lauded the Society’s role in education, youth empowerment, cultural preservation and social reform, terming it “a symbol of leadership and progressive thinking.”

Welcoming the inclusion of an environmental preservation session in the conference, Khandu described it as “timely and essential.” He expressed concern over rampant hill-cutting, especially in the Itanagar Capital Region, and called for terrain-friendly construction practices.

He further urged the NES to support government efforts in improving the quality of education and in tackling the growing menace of drug abuse, noting that CBOs hold unmatched influence at the grassroots level.

On the issue of illegal immigration, Khandu said the government had identified serious loopholes in the current Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.

“We are working to fully digitise the ILP system, plug loopholes, ensure accountability and make employers responsible for migrant labour,” he stated.

Expressing concern over rising youth unemployment, the Chief Minister called upon all CBOs to promote the dignity of labour among young people. “Unless our youth understand that no job is small, the inflow of migrant workers will continue and affect our demographic balance,” he cautioned.