An inquiry panel report uncovered large-scale unauthorised appointments, numbering 4,745, beyond the state’s sanctioned workforce strength. The inquiry was headed by the principal secretary of the Public Works Department and examined staffing irregularities in government departments.

The report found that the appointments were made without approval against government-sanctioned posts and violated established recruitment procedures.

Although the government is still reviewing the inquiry’s findings through inter-departmental consultations, it has decided to resume wage payments. The Arunachal Pradesh government has ordered the immediate release of monthly wages for 4,745 excess employees as an interim relief measure across various government departments.

A wage freeze had been in effect since 24 February.

While releasing the wages, the government stated that the decision to restart payments was taken on compassionate grounds to provide temporary relief to the affected workers and their families.

The question remains as to how such large-scale irregularities were not detected earlier. They not only drain the state’s funds but also prevent fair opportunity and competition. While the government has come up with measures to stop such appointments, the fact is that the system can still be manipulated, as seen in these cases. A strict monitoring mechanism has to be initiated.