Shillong, October 8: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has strongly criticised Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong over remarks allegedly linking the Union’s August 19 rally with allegations of illegal collection of money by police personnel.
In a press statement issued by KSU CEC Information and Publicity Secretary Pynshai Kupar M. Dkhar, the Union said the issues surrounding the August 19 rally and the alleged illegal collection of money by police were separate matters and should not be linked.
The KSU said its five demands placed before the state government were based on what it described as the welfare and interests of the indigenous people. “The illegal collection of money or wrongdoing of the police and the public agitation of the KSU are two different matters,” the Union said, accusing the Home Minister of attempting to divert attention from questions being raised over the alleged conduct of police personnel.
The Union also questioned the accountability of the Home Department, saying that if it was unable to provide a clear response regarding the actions of personnel under its supervision, responsibility must be fixed at the departmental level.
The KSU further said that if heading the Home Department had become difficult, the minister should consider stepping down.
Rejecting what it termed “political gymnastics,” the Union demanded a proper investigation into the alleged illegal collection of money by police personnel, including who authorised such activities and who may have benefited. “When the police have been seen publicly collecting money illegally, then investigate who gave the permission, investigate who benefited, and take action according to the law,” the statement said.
The KSU concluded by urging the government not to shift the focus of the controversy. “Do not change the issue. Answer the question,” the Union said.
