Jowai, Sep 23: A sensitisation programme on court procedure for Village Defence Party (VDP) members was organised by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), West Jaintia Hills, in collaboration with the office of the Superintendent of Police in Amlarem.
The programme aimed to strengthen the role of VDP members in community policing, deepen their understanding of legal and judicial procedures, and reinforce collaboration between law enforcement agencies and local communities.
Judicial Magistrate First Class LMMA Rymbai highlighted the importance of community participation in maintaining law and order and called upon VDP members to act as responsible custodians of justice at the grassroots level.
Circle Officer and VDP Officer R. Pde explained the statutory role of VDPs under the Meghalaya Village Defence Organisation Rules 2008. He outlined the duties and functions of VDPs, emphasising their role in assisting the police in crime prevention, conducting vice raids, and safeguarding villages from antisocial elements.
Speaking on the role of VDPs in supporting law enforcement, Assistant Public Prosecutor N. Sumer stressed the need for VDP members to assist in investigation processes, support victims, and guide witnesses through the justice system.
Officer-in-Charge of Amlarem Police Station Inspector D. Lamare elaborated on the role of VDPs in criminal cases, particularly their cooperation in the filing of First Information Reports (FIRs) and preparation of charge sheets, which are crucial in ensuring timely justice.
The programme also highlighted broader community policing initiatives across West Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills.
At present, West Jaintia Hills has 216 registered VDPs with over 3,000 volunteers actively assisting the police. Their contributions have included tracking the movement of militants, participating in successful joint operations, and conducting vice raids in partnership with law enforcement agencies.
The event also underscored the important role of Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) under the Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority. PLVs serve as intermediaries between the public and the justice system by spreading awareness on legal rights, assisting with FIR registration, facilitating access to government schemes, and ensuring justice for marginalized communities. Their work complements that of the VDPs by promoting legal empowerment alongside community safety.
Through the sensitisation programme the organisers hoped to empower the community-based organisations with legal knowledge, practical skills, and closer coordination with law enforcement, the authorities aim to build safer, more resilient, and legally aware communities across Meghalaya.
