SHILLONG: Security has been tightened across the state ahead of the Independence Day celebrations.
Talking to media persons at Polo Ground where the official programme will be held on Wednesday, East Khasi Hills SP Davis Marak said the city is under security cover with frequent police patrols.
“Security forces have been directed to remain vigilant and intensify checking. We are ready to tackle any kind of situation,” Marak said.
The police have been getting threat messages from rebel organisations who want to boycott the celebrations, he informed. However, no group has called bandh on the day.
After the ban on bandh by the High Court of Meghalaya in 2015, people celebrate the days of national importance without fear as they come out in large numbers.
Special check points have been set up across Shillong. There is additional deployment of police personnel besides checking of vehicles both in the city and on its outskirts.
The SP said there is adequate security arrangement for other programmes on Independence Day.
Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma will hoist the Tricolour at Polo Ground.
DGP Raghavendra Awasthi told reporters on Monday though militancy is down in both Khasi and Garo Hills, there can be mischief mongers and police have resistant measures to deal with any such situation.
Asked about Garo Hills in the wake of neutralisation of GNLA, the DGP said, “We do not foresee any disturbances though the tie-up of NDFB with local elements cannot be ruled out.”
“We have made necessary security arrangements for the peaceful celebration of Independence Day,” he added.
Recently, there was exchange of fire between NDFB cadres and police in Garo Hills resulting in the death of a rebel.
Asked about HNLC, the DGP said the police will not be complacent.
