No illegalities will be allowed: new Meghalaya HM

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 12, 2020

SHILLONG: On taking over as the new home minister, Lahkmen Rymbui on Wednesday said that no illegalities will be allowed in the state.

The United Democratic Party (UDP) legislator of Amlarem constituency was given charge of the crucial department following chief minister Conrad K Sangma’s decision to effect a reshuffling of portfolios yesterday.

The home portfolio was stripped from the CM’s elder brother and minister, James K Sangma following discontentment among the coalition partners in the NPP-led Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) government over the alleged illegal coal transportation.

Rymbui is also holding charge of education, forest & environment and border area development.

Speaking to media persons here, Rymbui expressed gratefulness to the chief minister for thinking that he is fit to look after the home department.

“Taking over as the home minister is part and parcel of our duty and I take it as a responsibility to serve the state,” he said while asserting that the role and responsibility of the home (police) is to ensure peace and tranquility prevails in the state.

Asked on the rampant illegal transportation of coal and the alleged nexus between politicians, police and coal mafias, the new home minister said that he is committed to ensure that no illegalities will be allowed in the state.

“I am very firm that no illegalities will be allowed in our state,” said Rymbui, who also held a brief meeting with the officials of the home department.

“I am taking this responsibility with a clean slate and I will see what I have to do so that the confident of the people on the government will be there,” he added.

To another question, Rymbui however refused to give any further comment but says “I cannot speak on things that have happened but the law will take its own course.” He reminded that it is the duty of the police department to thwart and prevent any illegal activities.

Meanwhile, the home minister will also hold a review meeting with the officials of the department next week.