New Delhi: The Delhi government has removed IAS officer Talo Potom from his post as Special Secretary in the Public Works Department (PWD) after his arrest in Arunachal Pradesh.
Officials confirmed that the file for his suspension has been forwarded to the Union Home Ministry through the Lieutenant Governor’s office for final approval.
Potom Arrested in Suicide Case, Later Granted Bail
Talo Potom, a 53-year-old IAS officer of the AGMUT cadre, was arrested in connection with the suicide of 19-year-old Gomchu Yekar, who died by suicide at his rented apartment in Lekhi village, Nirjuli, on October 23.
Potom, who was accused of harassment in the case, surrendered at the Nirjuli police station in Itanagar on October 29 and was subsequently remanded to 14-day judicial custody.
He later secured bail from the District and Sessions Court, Yupia, after furnishing a bail bond of ₹1 lakh.
Sunil Anchipka Given Additional Charge
Following Potom’s removal, the Delhi government has given Sunil Anchipka, Special Commissioner in the Sales and Taxes Department, the additional charge of Special Secretary (PWD).
Alongside, the government has issued fresh transfer and posting orders for a total of 16 officers, including seven IAS and nine DANICS officers.
While most IAS officers have been assigned additional responsibilities, several DANICS officers have been given new postings as part of the administrative reshuffle.
Background: Potom’s Career and Recent Transfer to Delhi
Before his transfer to Delhi, Talo Potom served as the Deputy Commissioner of the Itanagar Capital Region in Arunachal Pradesh. A promotee from the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Services, Potom joined the AGMUT cadre and was posted to Delhi in June 2024, where he took charge as Special Secretary in the PWD.
According to officials, Potom had gone on leave and returned to Arunachal Pradesh on October 17, shortly before the suicide case surfaced. The suicide notes recovered from the spot reportedly mentioned his name, leading to his arrest and subsequent departmental action.
Government Acts Swiftly Amid Ongoing Investigation
The Delhi government’s action to remove Potom and forward his suspension proposal reflects a move to ensure administrative accountability while the criminal investigation continues in Arunachal Pradesh.
Sources said the government is awaiting Home Ministry approval for formal suspension as required under service conduct rules for All India Services officers.
