SHILLONG: In a strong assertion of administrative integrity, Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong reaffirmed the state government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption, pledging stringent action against any police personnel or official involved in illegal collection schemes.
The assurance comes in the wake of claims made by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) regarding alleged extortion along the national highway at Mawkhanu and Thangshalai in East Khasi Hills.
While assuring a thorough crackdown on illegalities, the government has firmly rejected demands for the removal of East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem, maintaining that strong governance must not be undermined by isolated incidents.
Addressing media concerns, Tynsong disclosed that the government took immediate cognizance of the situation as soon as the union’s visit to the site surfaced on social media.
Action was set in motion immediately, with direct instructions issued to the Director General of Police (DGP) to initiate a swift investigation.
Both the DGP and the SP have since taken necessary measures to address the allegations on the ground.
ALSO READ: KSU Demands Resignation of EKH SP Vivek Syiem Over Alleged Extortion Row
Underlining a proactive stance against administrative misconduct, the Deputy Chief Minister expressed gratitude toward citizens and organizations that bring government wrongdoing to light.
He assured that disclosures regarding corrupt practices by any state agency are welcomed, promising strict disciplinary and legal action against any officers, employees, or police personnel found complicit.
Reinforcing this directive, the Home (Police) Department has issued state-wide instructions to all District Superintendents of Police to clamp down hard on any illegal extortion targeted at local businesses, shops, or commercial transport.
At the same time, Tynsong addressed the recent poster campaign aimed at defaming him and SP Vivek Syiem, characterizing such acts as impulsive and immature.
Dismissing the smear effort, he remarked that individuals must take responsibility for their conduct, warning that ill-considered actions often backfire on those who initiate them.
Defending the administration’s performance, Tynsong stated that the government would not accede to calls for transferring the DC and SP, citing their proven track record and dedication to public service.
He urged the public to view the broader picture of administrative progress and positive systemic changes rather than judging an entire machinery based on a single localized event.
Tracing the root of recent tensions, the Deputy Chief Minister noted that the union’s aggressive posture appears linked to the aftermath of the September 19 rally, where masked individuals engaged in militant-like tactics, throwing stones at vehicles and harassing commuters.
Pointing out that subsequent friction stemmed from those disruptive actions, Tynsong appealed for an immediate end to hostility, inviting all aggrieved groups to engage through constructive, lawful dialogue to uphold peace and public order across the state.
(4FrontMedia news)
