An IAS officer from Arunachal Pradesh, accused in connection with a suicide case involving allegations of sexual abuse and torture, surrendered early Monday.
Fifty-three-year-old Talo Potom turned himself in before the Arunachal Pradesh Police after a manhunt was launched against him.
Potom’s arrest came after the death of 19-year-old Gomchu Yekar.
Yekar was found dead at his rented accommodation in Papum Pare district on October 23.
Potom had appointed Yekar as a multi-tasking staffer on a contractual basis during his tenure as the deputy commissioner in Itanagar.
Yekar left multiple suicide notes, accusing Potom and executive engineer Likwang Lowang of sexually abusing him multiple times.
He also alleged that he contracted HIV due to the repeated sexual abuse by both the senior officials.
He held both the officials responsible for his extreme decision.
Hours after the suicide note surfaced, the accused executive engineer allegedly shot himself dead.
Police launched a nationwide hunt for Potom after the suicide note triggered public protests.
ICR Deputy Inspector General of Police Tumme Amo confirmed that police said that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) have been constituted to investigate the case.
The team is headed by Itanagar SDPO Kengo Dirchi, Nirjuli PS OC Inspector Talom Moya Nekam, Nirjuli PS SI Gopal Tok (investigating officer), Head Constable Dakter Lomb, and others.
Before surrendering, Potom issued a video statement denying the allegations against him. He said he has no involvement in the incident and called the charges against him ‘totally false and baseless’.
Potom is currently serving as a special under secretary of the Public Works Department under the Delhi government.
