26/10/2025
Talo Potom, a 2016-batch IAS officer of the Arunachal-Goa-Mizoram-Union Territories (AGMUT) cadre, is currently posted as Special Under Secretary (or Special Secretary, per some reports) in the Public Works Department (PWD), Government of Delhi.
On October 25, 2025, the Nirjuli Police Station in Arunachal Pradesh's Papum Pare district issued a Look Out Notice (LON) against him, as shown in the document you provided. This notice declares him an absconding accused in connection with a su***de case registered under NRJ PS Case No. 92/2025 U/S 108/271/272/3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), dated October 25, 2023 (likely a typographical error for 2025 in the notice).
The LON requests all police stations across India to remain vigilant, apprehend him if found, and contact Nirjuli Police Station at phone numbers +91-8974154089 or +91-878127472. Potom with an oval face, short hair, and height of 5'3". The notice stems from an FIR filed by the family of a deceased individual, alleging abetment to su***de.
The case revolves around the tragic deaths of two young men in Arunachal Pradesh on October 23-24, 2025, which have sparked statewide outrage and calls for accountability.
Here's a timeline based on police reports and media coverage:
October 23, 2025 (Evening): Gomchu Yekar, a 19-year-old resident of Itanagar, was found dead in his room in Nirjuli, having died by su***de. A su***de note recovered from the scene explicitly accused Talo Potom (then former Deputy Commissioner of Itanagar Capital Region) and Likwang Lowang (an Executive Engineer in the Rural Works Department, or RWD) of prolonged sexual exploitation, coercion, mental harassment, and intimidation.
Yekar alleged:
Months of abuse, including manipulation with false promises of financial aid and job opportunities.
Contracting HIV/AIDS as a result of the exploitation.
Threats to ruin his life and family if he disclosed the abuse.
The family of Yekar lodged an FIR at Nirjuli Police Station later that evening, naming Potom and Lowang as responsible for abetting the su***de. Police classified the death as unnatural under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
October 24, 2025 (Early Morning): Hours after Yekar's death, Likwang Lowang (aged 36) was found dead by su***de in his residence in Khonsa, Tirap district. No su***de note was immediately reported from Lowang's scene, but the timing raised suspicions of a connected "twin su***de" linked to the allegations.
Yekar's family has publicly demanded justice, alleging a cover-up and warning of extreme measures (e.g., burying Yekar's body at Potom's residence) if the investigation stalls. Medical confirmation of Yekar's HIV-positive status has fueled claims of exploitation. The case has highlighted broader issues of power abuse, workplace harassment, and lack of support for victims in administrative circles.
Police Investigation and Response
FIR and Charges: The case against Potom (Lowang's death is under separate probe) includes:
Special Investigation Team (SIT): On October 25, 2025, Arunachal Pradesh Police formed an SIT led by Naharlagun SDPO Dirchi Diru to probe the incidents. The team is focusing on abetment to su***de, potential sexual assault, and related offenses.
Manhunt for Potom: Potom went incommunicado shortly after Yekar's death. Police Raided his Itanagar residence, recovering one of his SIM cards from a mobile phone; the second SIM was with his caretaker, who initially obstructed entry
Used mobile tracking to visit locations but found him absent.
Launched a nationwide manhunt, with the LON circulated to all states.
As of October 26, 2025 (today), Potom remains at large, with no confirmed sightings or arrests. Police sources indicate intensified efforts, but no breakthroughs have been announced.
Public and Media Reaction
The incident has ignited protests and media scrutiny in Arunachal Pradesh, with accusations of systemic corruption and exploitation by officials. Social media discussions (e.g., on X) reference prior rumors of Potom's involvement in "bisexual escapades" and corruption.
Yekar's family has urged other potential victims to come forward for HIV testing and support.
This is an ongoing investigation, with no resolution on Potom's capture as of now.
Edited & Published by
Ms Narola Imchen
Staff Reporter ANC
(Kohima)
Followers
Talo Potom
MyGov Arunachal Pradesh
Current Affairs
Delhi Police
K. Wotza Amy Vilibo
Narendra Modi
Pema Khandu
Nagaland Police
Indian National Congress - Tripura
