Shillong, Aug 6: The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Umiam Circle has demanded a thorough investigation into an incident of alleged of police impersonation and illegal entry of non-tribals into Meghalaya.
According to the union, an individual claiming to be a police officer collected Rs 1,000 each from five non-tribal individuals as an entry fee into the state.
The incident occurred on Wednesday (August 6), when the KSU Umiam Circle led by its president Bashem Kharnaior received a tip-off about the presence of an individual claiming to be a police officer.
The individual, identified as Brill Rongpeit, allegedly possessed an official identity card.
The KSU Umiam Circle intervened and questioned the individual, but both the alleged police officer and the non-tribal individuals fled the scene, evading further inquiry.
Viewing this incident with grave concern, citing growing influx of outsiders and unchecked migration into Meghalaya, the KSU Umiam Circle has demanded a clear and immediate clarification from the Meghalaya Police department regarding the true identity and status of the individual. It has also demanded a thorough investigation into the matter to hold the persons involved accountable.
“The Union therefore demands a clear and immediate clarification from the Meghalaya Police Department regarding the true identity and status of the individual named Brill Rongpeit. It is essential that the authorities confirm whether this individual is genuine police personnel who has grossly misused his authority and uniform, or an impersonator attempting to exploit the identity of the police force for personal gain,” the union said in a statement.
It asserted that such incidents seriously undermine public trust in the police department, especially when no clarity or accountability is provided in the aftermath adding “If such impersonations are possible, it also raises broader questions about the security of official identification systems and the lack of stringent mechanisms to prevent misuse.”
“(We) also calls upon the state government and the police department to conduct a thorough investigation into this matter, hold the persons involved accountable, and ensure that mechanisms are put in place to prevent such incidents from recurring,” the union stated while reiterating its unwavering commitment to protect the identity, safety, and rights of the indigenous people of Meghalaya by continuing to expose and resist all forms of illegal entry and activities that threaten the social fabric of the state.
The union also stated that the concern also arises following the eviction drive carried out by the Assam Government against Bangladeshi nationals in the state, which has raised fears within the Union that these individuals may attempt to settle in Meghalaya, thereby creating a potential threat of increased influx into the state.
, Umiam Circle has demanded a thorough investigation into an incident of alleged of police impersonation and illegal entry of non-tribals into Meghalaya. ){kind=link}