Itanagar, Nov 21 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu, sent a resolute message on Friday against corruption, calling on community-focused organizations to take charge in the united effort for transparency and accountability in the state's growth.

At the 14th General Conference of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) in Koloriang, CM Khandu expressed his grave concerns about reported extensive irregularities regarding land compensation for the Lada–Sarli segment of the Frontier Highway in the East Kameng district.

He stated that initial investigations point to a significant misuse of compensation funds.

“Whose money is it? It belongs to the taxpayers of this country. The Union government invests thousands of crores for Arunachal's development, and we cannot allow a handful of individuals to derail progress out of greed,” the Chief Minister warned, emphasizing that stringent actions would be taken against those culpable.

Referring to the Frontier Highway as a transformative project for the border regions, the Chief Minister lamented that “the actions of a few” had resulted in delays.

He urged NES to lead a robust statewide initiative against corruption and the rising culture of money.

CM Khandu also took the opportunity to call upon CBOs (Community-Based Organizations), NGOs (Non-Governmental Organizations), and student bodies to advocate against electoral misconduct, especially with upcoming panchayat and municipal elections.

He reminded attendees that as the central body of the state's largest tribe, the NES has a crucial role in guiding and uniting the 26 major tribes and over 100 sub-tribes of Arunachal Pradesh.

“In a state as diverse as ours, organizations like NES are vital for fortifying unity in diversity — our greatest asset,” he asserted.

CM Khandu commended NES for its contributions to education, youth empowerment, cultural preservation, and social reform, labeling it as “a symbol of leadership and progressive thought.”

He welcomed the addition of an environment preservation session at the NES conference, deeming it “timely and necessary.”

Expressing concern about rampant hill-cutting in the Itanagar Capital Region, he encouraged the adoption of construction practices that are considerate of the terrain.

CM Khandu further urged the NES to assist the state government in enhancing education quality and addressing the escalating problem of drug abuse.

He noted that CBOs possess unrivaled influence at the grassroots level.

On the matter of illegal immigrants, CM Khandu shared that discussions at the government level have uncovered serious flaws in the existing Inner Line Permit (ILP) system.

“We are working to fully digitize the ILP system, close loopholes, ensure accountability, and hold employers responsible for hiring migrant labor,” he added.

Reiterating his concerns regarding youth unemployment, CM Khandu called on all CBOs to advocate for the dignity of labor.

“Unless our youth realize that no job is insignificant, the influx of migrant workers will persist and disrupt our demographic balance,” he cautioned.