By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 7: The Hynniewtrep Youth Council (HYC) has strongly criticised the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) Government for allegedly blurring the line between official state functions and political promotion during a programme in Tura marking eight years in office.
HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem congratulated the MDA Government on completing its eight-year tenure but condemned the use of pandals, decorations, and jackets worn by the Chief Minister and ministers, which prominently featured colours resembling the flag of the National People’s Party (NPP).
“Such actions are highly inappropriate and questionable, especially since the event was an official government programme funded by public resources,” the HYC stated.
It emphasised that government platforms must remain politically neutral and should not be used—directly or indirectly—to promote any particular political party.
The council stressed the need for a clear distinction between government functions and party programmes. The use of party-like colours, symbols, or arrangements in official events creates a perception that public funds are being misused for political branding, raising serious ethical and democratic concerns. “Whether such acts are appropriate and whether it is right to subtly promote a political party during a government programme that belongs to all citizens, irrespective of their political affiliation,” the HYC questioned, while urging the government to uphold the dignity and neutrality of official state functions and prevent them from becoming platforms for political branding.
Go after masterminds: HYC on drug haul
The organisation hailed the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) of Meghalaya Police for a major drug seizure valued at over Rs 51 crore, while calling for intensified efforts to target the key operators and financiers of drug trafficking syndicates.
Congratulating the ANTF on the successful operation, HYC president Roy Kupar Synrem said that while arresting carriers and small-time suppliers is essential, true progress against the drug menace depends on identifying and prosecuting the masterminds who remain behind the scenes.
Synrem noted that the drug trade in the region appears highly organised, with vulnerable individuals often exploited as carriers by hidden operators and financiers.
The HYC urged law enforcement agencies to extend investigations beyond immediate arrests and focus on dismantling entire networks involved in narcotics trafficking.
Describing the seizure—estimated at over Rs 51 crore—as a significant achievement, the council said it reflects the resolve of authorities to combat drug trafficking in Meghalaya.
Synrem, however, added that real success would only be achieved when those orchestrating the trade from the shadows are brought to justice.
