Nongpoh: Gambling which has been strictly prohibited by the District Administration is growing at an alarming rate in Baridua and Khanapara villages under Khanapara Police Outpost. This was brought to light when local residents informed media persons of such illegal activities which have been going on for quite some time. A group of media persons went on a surprise visit at Baridua and Khanapara villages and located several dens where these activities took place. Some were also even clearly visible along the Khanapara village roadside.
These activities includes gambling(with dice) and playing cards also locally known as Khalai Khruk Khruk, however, no action has been taken by the District Administration and Police Department so far.
When contacted by a group of media persons, John Nongrum, Secretary of Baridua village, admitted that these kind of illegal activities have been on the rise recently and that the village authority cannot do anything to stop it as they are organized by a group of influential persons without the knowledge of the village authority or the District Administration.
The Deputy Commissioner of Ri Bhoi District, CP Gotmare, when contacted said that so far he had received no complaint on such illegal activities in these two villages, adding that organizing any kind of gambling is not permitted without prior permission from the District Administration.
Gotmare also said that the District Administration is ready to take necessary actions against such illegal activities and the organizers if found and that they will be punished accordingly for organizing these activities without prior permission from the District Administration.
