By Our Reporter
SHILLONG: Meghalaya Director General of Police (DGP) Kulbir Krishan on Friday expressed apprehension over the reported attempts by the outlawed HNLC to regroup itself ahead of the upcoming Assembly election in the hill state.
“We are pretty sure that the HNLC would try to take advantage to make their presence felt in the run up to the upcoming election,” the DGP said, while claiming that the State Police are on high alert.
The DGP also stated that the police with the support of the Central paramilitary forces would take all possible steps to thwart any attempts by any of the militant groups to disrupt the election in the State.
“We would try our level best to ensure a free and fair election,” Krishan said.
Out of the total 76 additional forces which the State has sought from the Centre, he said that half of the strength would be deployed in Garo Hills.
Meanwhile, the police chief ruled out the involvement of any political party with militant outfits in Garo Hills.
“I do not think political parties have any link with militant groups in Garo Hills,” Krishan told reporters. The DGP, however, admitted to possibilities that some politicians might have links with militants at the individual level even though he stated that while police have no specific information on any link between politicians and militants.
Krishan also dismissed speculations that the recent attacks on MPCC working president Deborah C Marak and C&RD Minister Saleng M Sangma by militants might be at the behest of some politicians.
“The militants might have some personal grudge which led to the attacks on the two political leaders,” Krishan said, while terming the attacks as unfortunate.
Following the attacks, police have taken necessary precautions by way of providing security to political leaders who are campaigning in Garo Hills, he said.