RTI inquiry could make depts hesitant to implement development schemes in the villages, affecting projects aimed for farmers, accused says while coming clean
By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 4: RTI activist Napoleon S Mawphniang has filed a complaint with NPP national president and Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, alleging that Henry Nongrum, the NPP president of the Nongpoh unit, and his associates made an uninvited visit to his home in Syadheh, Umsning, and threatened to kill him.
In his letter to the Chief Minister, Mawphniang expressed deep concern over what he described as “Orwellian tactics and Machiavellian maneuvers” by Nongrum, whom he claims tried to pressure him into withdrawing an RTI application filed with the Soil and Conservation Department. Mawphniang’s RTI request focuses on schemes implemented in Shakoikuna village, where Nongrum also serves as the Rangbah Shnong (village headman).
“The timing and nature of this visit raise alarming questions about the transparency of these schemes and Nongrum’s motivations,” said Mawphniang, who is also a lawyer. He claims that after refusing to withdraw the application, Nongrum’s demeanour changed, and he resorted to “Orwellian intimidation,” using his party position as a tool of fear.
Mawphniang further alleged that Nongrum’s actions represent an abuse of power, obstructing the RTI process and undermining democratic principles. “The fact that Nongrum, both as a party official and village headman, felt compelled to trespass on my property and attempt to interfere with a legal RTI inquiry raises serious questions,” he stated, questioning why Nongrum would seek to suppress the inquiry if there were no issues with the scheme’s implementation.
Mawphniang urged the NPP leadership to take swift action, as he believes Nongrum’s behaviour not only damages the party’s reputation but also threatens the principles of transparency and accountability. “I have already filed an FIR with the Superintendent of Police, Ri-Bhoi. However, due to the gravity of the situation and its implications for the party’s integrity, I felt compelled to bring this matter directly to your (Conrad Sangma) attention,” he added.
The FIR filed by Mawphniang accuses Nongrum and his associates of trespassing, criminal intimidation, and obstructing a public servant.
According to the FIR, Nongrum, accompanied by the Lamalong village Headman and others, arrived at Mawphniang’s home around 9:30 am uninvited and entered without permission. Mawphniang alleges that when he explained the application had lapsed per the RTI Act of 2005, Nongrum became agitated, raised his voice, and made threats, emphasising his position as NPP Nongpoh Unit president and an executive member of Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong (a local organisation of headmen), in an apparent attempt to intimidate.
The activist said he views these actions as a direct threat to his safety and raised concerns about potential retaliation, especially as the Headman of Lamalong village was also present, someone about whom he had filed a separate RTI.
“Given these circumstances, I fear for my life and personal safety. Should anything happen to me, I believe Henry Nongrum or his associates may be responsible,” he stated in his FIR.
Charges rejected
In response, Henry Nongrum denied the allegations, asserting that he and other members of the Dorbar Shnong of Shakoikuna and Lamalong only visited Mawphniang to seek clarification on the RTI findings. “If we had any ill intentions, we would have visited him at night,” Nongrum said, explaining that he merely asked Mawphniang who had requested him to file the RTI and was told it was the Bar Association.
Nongrum clarified that during their conversation, he mentioned his roles in the NPP and Synjuk Ki Rangbah Shnong, but denied making any threats. “He alleged that I threatened to kill him, which is not true,” he stated.
Adviser to the Shakoikuna Dorbar Shnong Executive Committee, Liandar Nongshli, also denied the allegations, stating that the purpose of their visit was simply to request Mawphniang to withdraw the RTI application, though they respected his decision not to comply.
Nongshli expressed concern that the RTI inquiry could make government departments hesitant to implement development schemes in the villages, affecting farmer-focused projects funded by ADB and NABARD that they plan to propose.
The police have confirmed they are investigating the case. “If needed, we will register a case,” a police official said.