The Arunachal Pradesh government on Monday posthumously conferred the Gold Medal on whistleblower late Gyamar Padang in recognition of his exceptional courage and service to public interest during the state-level celebration of the 77th Republic Day in Itanagar.
Padang, a former assistant engineer (civil) examination candidate, played a pivotal role in exposing the 2022 paper leakage scam linked to the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission. His revelations brought to light an alleged cash-for-job racket that shook the state’s recruitment system and triggered widespread public outrage.
The disclosures led to a CBI probe and multiple arrests, marking one of the most significant anti-corruption crackdowns in the state. The case also fuelled sustained public demands for transparency and accountability in recruitment processes.
Padang passed away on May 3, 2023, while undergoing treatment for a prolonged illness. Nearly three years after his death, the state honoured his moral courage, with family members receiving the Gold Medal on his behalf at the official Republic Day function.
The government described Padang as a symbol of integrity whose actions strengthened democratic values and the rule of law in Arunachal Pradesh. The Republic Day programme featured ceremonial parades, cultural performances and the presentation of state awards.
Besides Padang, the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission and the Women Police Station, Pasighat, in East Siang district, were also awarded the Gold Medal for their distinguished service.
#gyamarpadang #ArunachalPradesh #appscfiasco #PemaKhandu #KirenRijiju
