Shillong: Amid increasing concerns over drug abuse and theft in Shillong, South Shillong MLA Sanbor Shullai convened a meeting on Friday with stakeholders from the municipal areas under his constituency.
The meeting, attended by officials from the East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner’s office, the Superintendent of Police (SP), and the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), aimed to address pressing issues affecting the community. Labour Commissioner officials were also present.
Shullai noted that this meeting followed an earlier one held two months ago with stakeholders from the Cantonment area. He highlighted the arrest of a notorious drug supplier, Aisha Khatoon, from Jhalupara, a part of the Cantonment area, which has since led to a reduction in complaints.
Key issues discussed at the meeting included drug peddling, illegal immigration, theft, and other public concerns.
The MLA emphasised the importance of collaboration between communities and the police to combat these issues, urging residents to revive the traditional practice of community night patrols, locally known as ‘ap shnong’.
“Night patrolling can deter drug addicts and suppliers from creating disturbances. I urge residents to work closely with the police and other authorities to conduct checks and raise awareness,” said Shullai.
He expressed dismay over drug addicts targeting places of worship and stressed the need to intensify patrols. Additionally, Shullai called for stringent checks on all vehicles entering Shillong, including those of high-profile individuals and security forces, to curb drug inflow.
Shullai outlined the need for check gates at key entry points such as Byrnihat and Jaintia Hills, citing routes through Assam, Myanmar, Manipur, and Silchar as major drug supply channels.
“The government must focus on sealing entry and exit points. Continuous checks for a year could significantly reduce the drug menace,” he said.
He also mentioned instances where police and military personnel were caught with drugs, underscoring the need for impartial enforcement.
On rehabilitation, Shullai highlighted financial barriers for families seeking treatment for their loved ones. He revealed that while other North-East states like Assam, Manipur, Tripura, and Nagaland have received central funding for rehabilitation centres, Meghalaya and Mizoram have been excluded due to political differences with the BJP-led central government.
“I have spoken to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, the Deputy Chief Minister, and the Social Welfare Minister to identify land in New Shillong and other districts for rehabilitation centres. Once land is secured, the state government can prepare a detailed project report (DPR) and approach the central government for funding,” said Shullai.
Laban Rangbah Shnong (headman) E.L. Kharwanlang voiced concerns about small-scale drug possession and the lack of accessible government rehabilitation centres. He suggested stricter labour registration to monitor illegal immigrants and pointed to rising thefts as a byproduct of drug abuse.
SP ANTF Jagpal Dhanoa clarified that arrests can be made under the NDPS Act for all categories of drug possession: small, intermediate, and commercial quantities. However, he noted the nuanced challenge of addressing addicts who are both victims and, in some cases, peddlers.
“From a humanitarian perspective, addicts are also victims. But under the law, consumption is a crime. The issue is complex, as many addicts turn to peddling to sustain their addiction,” said Dhanoa.
He assured the Rangbah Shnong that community trust in the police would be prioritised. “We will ensure that community efforts are supported, and the police take action when needed to maintain public confidence,” he said.
Shullai reiterated the need for a multi-pronged approach involving stricter enforcement, community involvement, and increased rehabilitation facilities. He expressed hope that coordinated efforts between the government, law enforcement, and the community could restore safety and security in Shillong.
The meeting served as a platform for stakeholders to share their perspectives and propose actionable steps to address the growing menace of drug abuse and associated crimes in the city.
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