The All Puroik Youth Association (APYA) has demanded an independent inquiry into the functioning of the Puroik Autonomous Board, alleging irregularities in the implementation of welfare schemes and lack of transparency in the approval of development proposals.
Addressing a press conference at the Arunachal Press Club, All Bichom District Puroik Youth Association president Rasam Rojo said the organisation has submitted a representation to the Chief Secretary seeking an investigation into alleged unauthorised collection of money from beneficiaries under welfare schemes implemented through the Board.
Rojo acknowledged the state government’s decision to establish the Puroik Autonomous Board in 2017, describing it as an important initiative for the welfare and development of the Puroik community. However, he alleged that several villages have remained deprived of expected development benefits despite the Board’s existence.
He said available funds should be distributed according to the actual needs of villages across the seven districts where the Puroik community resides, with priority given to basic facilities such as community infrastructure and drinking water.
The Association also alleged irregularities in the approval process of development projects and sought a probe before further welfare schemes are finalised. Rojo denied allegations of disrupting an official Board meeting and said he had approached the department for a separate matter.
APYA further demanded that new members of the Board be appointed after consultations with recognised Puroik organisations to ensure wider community representation and greater accountability.
