ITANAGAR, India – Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu issued a stern warning against corruption, particularly targeting government employees, during the passing-out parade of the 49th batch of Arunachal Pradesh Police (APP) recruits on Wednesday. Khandu specifically addressed rumors of bribes being solicited from contractual nurses seeking job regularization, stating that a thorough investigation is underway and those involved will face consequences.
Despite the state cabinet’s approval for the phased regularization of contractual nurses, Khandu expressed astonishment at the alleged bribery attempts. He emphasized that strict action would be taken against any perpetrators. The Chief Minister urged the 885 new constables – the largest graduating class in the PTC’s history – to uphold integrity and combat corruption within the department.
The ceremony at the Police Training Centre (PTC), Banderdewa, saw the graduation of 738 civil police personnel (including 96 women), 140 from the Arunachal Pradesh Armed Police Battalion (including 14 women), and 7 from the India Reserve Battalion. These recruits are scheduled to begin their duties on January 13, 2025.
Khandu highlighted the significant increase in police training this year, with 109 Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS) and 42 Recruit Firemen completing training in addition to the constables, bringing the 2024 total to 1,081. He also announced the state cabinet’s approval of special grade promotions for police constables, head constables, and assistant sub-inspectors across various wings, addressing long-standing concerns about career progression. This follows the awarding of 1716 special grade promotions to head constable rank earlier this year.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Home Minister Mama Natung and other government officials and family members of the new recruits.
Lara Zijl 
