By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 8: As the state government seeks to involve Village Defence Parties (VDPs) in combating the drug menace in various localities, former police officer and Rangbah Shnong of Riatsamthiah, M Kharkrang, has called on the government to provide necessary resources to Dorbar Shnongs. He suggested that if the engagement of VDPs does not prove effective, the police should focus their efforts on areas lacking Dorbar Shnongs.
Kharkrang highlighted the recent Rs 1 lakh grant from the Shillong Municipal Board, which enabled the Riatsamthiah locality to install CCTV cameras. He proposed that similar financial support be extended to Dorbar Shnongs to recruit their own volunteer home guards. “The Government will pay them, and the volunteers will be under the control of Dorbar Shnong,” he stated.
Kharkrang also emphasized that expecting voluntary work from youths is impractical in today’s context, as most are preoccupied with studies or employment. He urged the police department to be given at least 60 days to complete investigations, noting the improved Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) services available to Meghalaya police.
The Social Welfare department, in collaboration with the Home (Police) Department and the East Khasi Hills District Administration, recently held a consultative meeting on anti-drug initiatives. The meeting, held at the State Convention Centre in Shillong, included Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), Members of District Councils (MDCs), and representatives from Dorbar Shnongs of the Greater Shillong Area. This initiative is part of the Drug Reduction Elimination & Action Mission (DREAM), launched in June 2023. The mission aims to create a “Drug Free Meghalaya” through a coordinated strategy that leverages the combined efforts of state and local communities to eradicate substance use in the state.