SHILLONG: The Voice of the People Party (VPP) has called upon Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who oversees the home department, to take responsibility for ensuring the department’s professional conduct within the framework of a democratic system.
In a statement released on Tuesday, VPP spokesperson Batskhem Myrboh condemned the controversial use of legal provisions, specifically Section 171 and 34 of the IPC, along with Section 105 of the Meghalaya Police Act, 2010, against the Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO).
Labelling these actions as an abuse of power within the police department, the party expressed concern over the Home (Police) Department’s functioning under Tynsong’s leadership.
“It is clearly visible to any sensible human being that the Department follows a vendetta politics against those who choose to be critical of the State Government,” the statement read.
According to Myrboh, the police department had misinterpreted the law to build a false case against HITO, an organisation openly critical of the National People’s Party (NPP) and the Home Minister during the last Assembly election.
The VPP further condemned the excessive use of force by the police against unarmed demonstrators during the HITO march on September 4, resulting in distress for the affected citizens who were subjected to police brutality.
The party raised concerns about the state of mind and emotional stability of Meghalaya Police personnel, citing recent incidents in Thangskai, East Jaintia Hills, and Shillong. They called for stringent action against the responsible police officers for their decisions leading to such brutal actions and other violations of professional ethics, including the use of inappropriate language in public without restraint.
The VPP also insisted that the government provide satisfactory compensation to all injured individuals and those who suffered losses due to the unwarranted actions of the police personnel. The party’s statement emphasizes the importance of maintaining transparency, accountability, and professionalism within the Home department and the Meghalaya Police force.
