CORRESPONDENT
SHILLONG: Amid growing concerns over the law and order situation in Meghalaya, Leader of the Opposition and former Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Dr. Mukul Sangma, has made serious allegations regarding political interference in the functioning of the police force. Speaking to media persons in Shillong, Dr. Sangma stressed that even a capable and efficient police force cannot perform effectively unless it is granted complete operational independence.
Dr. Sangma asserted that police efficiency must not be situational or reactive to media attention but must instead be demonstrated consistently across all cases. “The efficiency of our police organisation, which has been demonstrated in this instant case, must be shown in every case. We should take every instance of crime with the utmost seriousness—not only when there is media pressure or public outcry,” he stated.
He expressed pride in the police force, highlighting its competence and responsibility. However, he added a strong caveat, calling for the removal of political interference. “The police organization should be allowed to function freely, as they have in the current case. Whether it’s cracking down on illegal coal mining, crimes against women and children, or tackling drug trafficking networks, the same efficiency must be applied,” he said. He pointed to the rising number of drug abuse cases among the youth, calling it alarming and questioning the lack of successful investigations in such matters.
Dr. Sangma referred to a recent gruesome murder allegedly committed by visitors to the state. Citing the leads from police investigations, he said that the case must be handled swiftly to ensure justice is served. “If proven guilty, the law must take its course and set a strong deterrent against criminally minded individuals who may view Meghalaya as a safe haven for committing crimes,” he emphasized.
Reflecting on past internal security meetings convened by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Dr. Sangma mentioned that he had often taken pride in the Meghalaya Police and had urged the central government to study and replicate their efficiency across other states. However, he warned that continued political interference could erode this effectiveness. “If we previously celebrated the competence and commitment of our police, we must now ask why they are not equally active in tackling issues like illegal mining, which extends beyond coal to include limestone and stone quarrying along the Assam-Meghalaya border,” he said.
Dr. Sangma also raised concerns about the modern methods of crime, including those facilitated by social media. He cautioned that criminals from outside the state might use digital platforms to track and target victims in Meghalaya. “This trend suggests that Meghalaya is being seen as a soft target. Those who committed the heinous crime clearly did their due diligence before choosing this place,” he remarked.
He called for strict enforcement of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, which mandates the installation of CCTVs along highways, neighbourhoods, and vulnerable areas. According to him, this is crucial to creating a strong deterrent and enhancing surveillance.
In conclusion, Dr. Sangma urged the public to question whether all reported crimes are being pursued with the same vigour as the current case. He questioned whether the government was interfering with the functioning of the police and pointed to official data presented in the legislative assembly that could help the public hold the government accountable. “Efficiency and competence must be allowed to flourish. Unless the police are free from political influence, their full potential cannot be realized,” he warned.
Also Read: Meghalaya: Dhar sets one month deadline for West Jaintia report
Also Watch: