Editor,

Bhanu Tatak, a legal adviser to the Siang Indigenous Farmers Forum (SIFF) and coordinator of the Dibang Resistance Movement, is known for her opposition to the 12,500 mw Siang Upper Multipurpose Project (SUMP).

She has been placed under investigation by the CBI. Allegations state that Tatak received funds from various foreign entities, including the Asia Indigenous Peoples Network on Extractive Industries, Energy and Indigenous Peoples Rights International and UK-based Human Rights Resource Centre, which were used to "organise and sustain anti-dam protests in Arunachal Pradesh," thereby "adversely affecting the economic and strategic interests of the nation."

This is not the first time she has faced investigation. Previously, in September 2025, Tatak was stopped at the Delhi Airport while attempting to travel to Dublin City University for a three-month academic programme, following a 'lookout circular' issued against her by the Arunachal Pradesh Police.

Similarly, Ebo Mili, another legal advisor to the SIFF, has repeatedly faced police detention, demands to sign undertakings, formal complaints/FIRs, and travel restrictions. These actions raise suspicions of a deliberate crackdown against those opposing the SUMP.

Regarding the August 2022 APPSC exam paper leak, a case involving dozens of individuals, including APPSC officials (such as the then-deputy secretary and deputy controller of examinations Taket Jerang), coaching centre staff, candidates, and others, the CBI has filed a preliminary chargesheet (December 2022) and supplementary chargesheets (including a third one in 2024), thereby completing key phases of the investigation into the 'cash-for-paper leak' scandal.

Although one implicated block education officer was dismissed in early 2026, final convictions or the formal conclusion of the case against all involved parties have yet to be achieved. Similarly, regarding the issue of contracts involving the relatives of CM Pema Khandu, specifically enterprises linked to his wife and other relatives securing a vast number of government projects worth up to Rs 1,270 crore, there has been no progress in this matter to date.

In contrast, it is all too easy to take action against ordinary citizens and activists. We are all watching to see whether the CBI can maintain the same level of resolve in conducting a thorough, impartial, and time-bound investigation, when the leads point towards powerful figures.

Likha Tana