Meghalaya: Mukul Sangma seeks police overhaul at security panel meet

Meghalaya's Leader of the Opposition, Mukul Sangma, has urged the state government to strengthen police preparedness and keep postings free of political interference, raising concerns over reports that former militant groups are trying to reorganise.

He raised the issues at a meeting of the State Security Commission on Wednesday, October 28, which reviewed police operations and security challenges across the state.

Police capacity and vacancies

Sangma called for stronger operational capabilities and better emergency response to deal with mob violence, civil disturbances and other threats. He asked for vacant posts in the police department to be filled on time, and said transfers and appointments should be free of political and outside influence to protect professional policing.

Influx and the border

On unauthorised influx and illegal immigration, Sangma called for strict enforcement of the Meghalaya Residents Safety and Security Act, 2016. He also stressed closer coordination between Assam and Meghalaya to maintain stability along their interstate boundary.

He repeated concerns about landowners along the India-Bangladesh border whose access to their property has been restricted by the border fence, and said their problems must be addressed alongside efforts to secure the border.

Call for coal probe

The former chief minister also sought a comprehensive investigation into suspected illegal coal mining and transport in Meghalaya, citing what he described as discrepancies in official figures. He said a probe should establish the facts, identify those responsible and ensure accountability.

Claims yet to be verified

The allegations about militant regrouping and illegal coal operations were made by the Opposition leader and have not been independently verified. The state government's response at the meeting was not reported.

Why it matters

The State Security Commission is the body meant to oversee policing policy, and its meetings give the opposition a formal platform on law and order. Illegal coal mining and transport have been a recurring issue in Meghalaya, and the border fence remains a sensitive subject for residents living close to the international boundary.