Shillong: Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong has stated that while the Hynñiewtrep Youths’ Council (HYC) acted on their sentiments, the government will adhere to the rule of law.
The HYC had carried out an unsanctioned eviction on May 23, demolishing alleged illegal settlements at Lum Survey, opposite the Ïewduh Fire and Emergency Station.
“We understand the sentiments of our young people. They had so much sentiment and thought that demolition is a simple issue. They just go through and settle it,” Tynsong said, emphasizing the necessity of upholding the law. “We are also not in favour of sheltering illegal settlers. If they are illegal, the law will take its course,” he added.
Tynsong noted that the HYC’s actions were a gross violation, especially since the issue is currently before the High Court. He urged all stakeholders to avoid taking the law into their own hands to prevent further complications. He reassured that the government is actively addressing the matter, verifying the residents’ legal status to determine if they are Indian citizens.
“The certification and verification are ongoing, and after the Court hearing, you will see the next steps taken by the state government and the Defence Estate Officer,” the Deputy Chief Minister stated.
Regarding the HYC’s involvement in addressing drug issues, Tynsong affirmed that the government’s priority is to target drug suppliers, who he said are ruining many lives. He also mentioned the government’s DREAM project, which aims to combat drug abuse and its impact on society.
Meanwhile, the HYC met with Director General of Police (DGP) Idashisha Nongrang and submitted a representation regarding the growing menace of drug abuse in the state.
In their representation, the HYC noted that the selling and consuming of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in Meghalaya appear to be increasing daily. “We believe that most of these drugs are supplied from outside the state, as evident from police seizures and interceptions. If law enforcement could reduce the trafficking of these drugs, the situation would improve drastically,” the HYC stated.
The group suggested that the Police Department adopt more stringent strategies to curb the drug supply. They also recommended joint operations involving the state police, Border Security Force, and Customs & Central Excise, along with village authorities, to effectively tackle the drug menace.
The HYC pointed out that the NDPS Act, 1985, provides stringent provisions for drug-related offences. “Despite major offences under the Act being non-bailable, many drug offenders secure acquittal on technical grounds due to non-compliance with mandatory provisions. This creates insecurity in society and undermines faith in the criminal justice system,” the HYC said.
The group emphasized the need for Investigating Agencies and Prosecutors to be well-versed in mandatory provisions and procedures to achieve the law’s objectives. They stated that to ensure convictions in NDPS cases, enforcement agencies must adhere to the Act’s provisions during investigation and prosecution stages.
The HYC also referenced Section 317 of The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which will come into force on July 1, 2024, relating to ‘receiving or retaining’ stolen property. They highlighted that drug users often commit theft to fund their addiction, selling stolen property at low prices.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
“To create awareness about this provision and its deterrent effect on selling and buying stolen properties, especially by drug users, we urge you to inform the public about this law and the consequences of violating it,” the HYC stated in their representation to the DGP.
Also Read | Shillong demolition a gross violation of law: Meghalaya home minister