Citizens sign a social contract with the state and surrender many of their civil liberties because they expect the state to execute its part of the agreement and to secure their lives. The police – an important arm of the state – is meant to enforce the rule of law so that citizens can pursue their activities without let or hindrance. But are the police fulfilling their objectives? If not, why not? How is it that the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) an outfit which in every sense of the term is operating like an outlawed organisation, virtually holding the state to ransom and are in control of the situation? Are the police in Garo Hills not equipped enough to handle the situation? If so then should the forces not be strengthened by way of better weapons training and intelligence gathering? It is good to hear a senior police official who is leading the fight against militancy in Garo Hills, speak about principled policing and their commitment to human rights by preventing the loss of innocent lives. But the fight against militancy has never been easy. Human shields are the weapons of choice for militants. Hence it is more a battle of nerves than a physical fight to the finish. But the two have to be equally matched.
To be fair to the police they do not seem to be acquainted with the rough terrain of Garo Hills. This means that they have not been trained in the most challenging counter-insurgency terrains. Sohan Shira the GNLA C-in-C appears to have the last laugh, always. There is no surprise element in store for him. What does this suggest? That Sohan Shira is always one step ahead. Earlier the police argued that they could not launch an all out operation because they did not want to jeopardise the life of abducted BDO PK Boro. This time they had to pull back because of Sohan’s children and wife. The fact that Sohan could ask his wife and children to come to his hideout is a bold step and a direct challenge to the police. The next question that follows is whether the police have unambiguous orders from the top about how to tackle the GNLA or whether there are ambivalences.
It is a fact that some politicians are hands in glove with the GNLA. This would explain their bravado and their easy mobility. Do the police know who these politicians are? Is it not time to expose them? After all if they are harbouring elements that harm every citizen for their short term electoral gains then they do not deserve to be elected. The politician-militant nexus in Khasi Hills was destroyed by the then Home Minister. Can the present one show more leadership? And will the police restore our faith in the system? We cannot have the GNLA kidnapping anyone they wish to at gunpoint without being challenged. If the GNLA can do this with impunity it means the State has failed. If that is so then it is high time to bring in President’s Rule.