SHILLONG, OCT 8: Leader of Opposition Dr Mukul Sangma on Thursday praised the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) for exposing alleged police extortion through a sting operation and demanded an independent investigation into the operation of illegal check gates in Meghalaya.
Sangma alleged that such activities could not continue without patronage from influential quarters and called for strict action against officers found abusing their authority under the Meghalaya Police Act, 2010. “The Police Act 2010 provides authority to take action against any officer who abuses his position. If any police officer can do whatever they have done with impunity, it cannot happen unless it is under patronage,” he said.
Stressing the need for an impartial investigation, Sangma questioned whether the government would act decisively without political interference. He commended the KSU for its vigilance, stating that civil society organisations have historically played an important role in exposing wrongdoing and holding authorities accountable in Meghalaya.
The former Chief Minister demanded that the government immediately convene a meeting of the State Security Commission to examine the alleged nexus behind illegal check gates and police extortion. “I have personally whispered to the Chief Minister to call the meeting of the State Security Commission. Government is supposed to hold it once in three months. How many times have we had the meeting? It is not my job to keep reminding them,” Sangma said.
Recalling an executive order issued by his government in 2010, Sangma said illegal check gates targeting coal-carrying trucks had been prohibited, with responsibility for enforcement placed on Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police. He pointed out that the order remains in force but questioned its effectiveness in the absence of proper enforcement.
Sangma also raised concerns over arbitrary transfers and postings of police officers, warning that such practices undermine the independence and integrity of the police force and compromise the administration of justice.
Responding to demands for the suspension of the Superintendent of Police and Deputy Commissioner, Sangma called for the invocation of Sections 107 and 108 of the Meghalaya Police Act to facilitate a fair investigation and identify those allegedly responsible for protecting the illegal activities. “Sections 107 and 108 of the Police Act should be invoked and statements recorded for free and fair investigation to know forces behind it,” he said.
Questioning how senior authorities could remain unaware of the alleged illegal activities, Sangma remarked, “Are they deaf, are they blind? It is not confined to one road, it is talk of the town.” He maintained that the allegations warranted a thorough and independent inquiry to establish accountability and restore public confidence in the police administration.
