SHILLONG: Former Chief Minister Dr. Mukul Sangma has raised serious concerns over law and order in Meghalaya, highlighting rising crime, systemic gaps in policing, and what he termed government negligence in addressing the state’s security challenges.
Speaking on the recent incidents of child disappearances and deaths, Dr. Sangma expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and described the crimes as unprecedented in Meghalaya’s history. He warned that while the state has faced lawlessness in the past, the nature and intensity of current crimes, including petty thefts and organized cattle-lifting operations using vehicles, are increasingly alarming.
“Restoration of peace doesn’t mean only absence of militancy or terrorist activities. Petty crimes provide a breeding ground for larger criminal activities, which ultimately threaten society,” he said.
Police Vacancies and Organizational Constraints
Dr. Sangma drew attention to persistent manpower shortages in the police force, which he said undermine effective law enforcement. Citing discussions with senior police officers, he noted that vacant posts across police stations and battalions significantly limit the force’s capacity to respond to crimes.
“Every measure to deal with these challenges requires a comprehensive understanding of the problem. Yet, many vacancies remain unfilled, depriving the state of trained personnel and weakening public safety,” he stated.
He questioned the government’s intent in leaving posts vacant, suggesting it may be a cost-saving measure that comes at the expense of state security.
Failure to Implement Safety Measures
Dr. Sangma criticized the government for neglecting initiatives started during his tenure, including the “Safe and Secure City” programs in Shillong and Tura, and the Meghalaya Resident Safety and Security Act (MRSSA). These measures were designed to empower traditional institutions, improve community engagement, and install critical safety infrastructure like CCTV cameras along key roads and highways.
“Infrastructure created over the years has disappeared or been weakened. Without these measures, criminal activities go unchecked, and the state becomes vulnerable,” he said.
Call for Comprehensive Action
Dr. Sangma emphasized that law and order challenges cannot be addressed through single interventions. He urged the government to strengthen police capacity, fill vacant posts promptly, restore safety infrastructure, and implement policies in a coordinated, multi-layered manner.
“The state is facing a growing law and order problem. The lack of concern and insensitivity shown by authorities towards these crucial responsibilities is condemnable,” he concluded.
