Shillong, October 19: Meghalaya Police have decided to intensify night patrolling, surveillance and security deployment across Shillong during Durga Puja celebrations, particularly during the early morning hours, while investigations continue into the suspected petrol bomb incident at Mawbah.
East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police in-charge Traffic, Hari Prasath M.R., on Monday said the decision was taken following a meeting with the Central Puja Committee, chaired by the Chief Secretary in the presence of the Director General of Police (DGP).
He informed that security arrangements would be strengthened through increased foot and mobile patrolling, additional police pickets and extended deployment during the late-night and early-morning hours. “Based on the inputs from the Central Puja Committee, we have decided to increase patrolling, both foot patrolling and mobile patrolling, and are increasing the picketing and extending the time, especially during the wee hours of the night from 12 am to 5.30 or 6 am,” he said.
The SP further stated that additional police personnel would be mobilised in sensitive areas to ensure public safety and prevent any untoward incidents during the festivities. “We are increasing the time of patrolling and we are mobilising more forces in sensitive areas,” he added.
Meanwhile, responding to questions regarding the suspected petrol bomb incident at Mawbah, Hari Prasath said the police were investigating the matter and that action would be taken against those responsible once their identities were established. “We are investigating into it. Investigation is going on and only after thorough investigation will we be able to know the persons involved in it and take action against them,” he said.
While acknowledging the recent incident, the SP maintained that the overall law and order situation in Shillong remained normal and under control. He described the incident as isolated and said the enhanced security measures were being undertaken as a precaution to maintain peace and ensure the safety of residents and devotees. “Things are normal. These are stray incidents which have happened, and to make sure we are on the caution side, we are increasing our patrolling and surveillance. There is nothing to worry about as things are normal,” he reassured.
The police have urged the public to remain calm as security personnel continue to maintain heightened vigilance across the city during the festive period.
