SHILLONG, July 4: The Meghalaya Civil Rights & Accountability Forum (MCRAF) has aired concerns over the implementation of the Integrated Excise Management System (IEMS), a policy introduced by the state government to enhance transparency and curb leakages in the liquor trade through QR code and hologram-based tracking of bottles.
A primary focus of the forum’s concern is the award of the IEMS implementation contract to C-Tel Infosystem Private Limited, represented by MP Singhania and Company.
The forum has sought clarity on the functioning of the system, its financial implications and the role of individuals associated with its implementation.
In a statement, MCRAF publicity secretary Pynsngew L. Pariat said the forum had also taken note of growing public perceptions that an individual holding neither elected office nor an officially notified government position was allegedly exerting influence over government departments, administrative decisions, the award of works, establishment matters and revenue-related affairs.
Pariat said such allegations, if substantiated, would constitute a serious constitutional and administrative concern and warrant a thorough and independent investigation.
The forum questioned the continued collection of IEMS-related charges despite reports that the system has yet to become fully operational.
It sought clarification on the legal and administrative basis for such collections and whether the objectives of transparency, accountability and efficient excise administration were being achieved.
According to MCRAF, a reduction in retailer profit margins from 20 per cent to 15 per cent had effectively been adjusted into IEMS-related collections, raising concerns about the financial burden on stakeholders.
The organisation further claimed that the current situation has adversely affected retailers, disrupted liquor supplies owing to unresolved pricing issues and may have resulted in revenue losses to the State exchequer.
MCRAF also referred to reports that similar systems implemented in neighbouring states had failed to achieve the desired outcomes.
It questioned the feasibility of relying on a technology-driven monitoring mechanism in Meghalaya, where several areas continue to face challenges related to electricity supply and internet connectivity.
Demanding immediate intervention, the forum called for a government clarification on the issues raised, a high-level independent inquiry into IEMS collections and related allegations, determination of accountability for any loss to the state exchequer, suspension of collections until the system becomes fully operational and legal action against any individual or entity found to have violated established procedures.
Pariat said governance in Meghalaya must remain free from extraneous influence, financial opacity and administrative irregularities, and urged authorities to uphold transparency, accountability and the rule of law.
