Shillong, Jun 18: Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home (Police), Prestone Tynsong, today asserted that no individual, regardless of rank or position, is above the law, amid public debate over a police vehicle that was recently clamped for an alleged parking violation in Shillong.
The issue gained attention after media persons captured a video showing traffic personnel clamping a police vehicle parked opposite the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Shillong. The video quickly circulated on social media, with many members of the public questioning whether the action was merely symbolic.
Several social media users also claimed that no penalty was ultimately imposed on the vehicle owner. Some pointed to the Meghalaya Traffic Police’s online challan portal, alleging that no challan had been generated against the vehicle, leading to accusations of double standards in the enforcement of traffic rules.
When asked whether he agreed with the public perception that the matter may have been resolved through internal influence without any penalty being imposed, Tynsong dismissed the criticism and reiterated the government’s stand on equal enforcement of the law.
“The public will say anything, but let me tell you that directions have been given from the government’s side to all police personnel. No matter how big or small you are, the law has to prevail. Whether it is senior officers, ministers, MLAs or anybody else, the law must be respected,” he said.
Tynsong stressed that designated parking spaces have been created for public use and that everyone is expected to adhere to the rules.
“When we have already created parking spaces where vehicles need to be parked, people should respect that and park accordingly,” he added.
The Deputy CM further said that clear instructions have been issued to traffic personnel and police officers responsible for maintaining law and order to enforce regulations without fear or favour.
“We have instructed the police force looking after traffic and those handling law and order that they must be stringent. They should not mind who the person is; they should simply do their job correctly,” Tynsong said.
