Shillong, Aug 13: Home Minister Prestone Tynsong on Wednesday said that the state government has directed all district police chiefs and civil administrators to step up vigilance along the Indo–Bangladesh border following the recent armed attack in Khunjoy, South West Khasi Hills.
Speaking to reporters after a review meeting with Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Deputy Commissioners (DCs) from across the state, Tynsong said illegal infiltration remains a persistent problem across multiple districts — from East Jaintia Hills to Dalu — and that proactive measures are being taken to prevent such incidents.
On the Khunjoy incident, Tynsong informed that several suspects have been arrested, while the main accused — who allegedly threw an explosive device during the attack — is believed to have fled back to Bangladesh. “Our police force and the BSF are in close coordination to track him down,” he said.
The Home Minister said initial police reports indicate the attack was purely criminal in nature, with the intention to rob. “It is nothing beyond that,” he stated. While reports suggest one of the accused may be a Bangladeshi police officer, Tynsong refrained from confirming this, reiterating that the matter involves Bangladeshi nationals engaged in illegal activities.
He also revealed that the state has about 40 kilometres of unfenced border, largely due to challenges in meeting international norms requiring fencing to be set 150 yards within Indian territory — a condition that could leave some villages in “no man’s land” vulnerable. “We have taken up this issue with the Ministry of Home Affairs and sought Bangladesh’s cooperation so that fencing can be closer to the main border pillars,” Tynsong explained.
Following the incident, the BSF has declared an “operation alert” along the international border, with the state police adopting the same policy. “With close coordination between our police and the BSF, I am confident we can overcome these challenges,” Tynsong said.
On reports of one infiltrator’s death, the Home Minister said he was awaiting a detailed written report from the district SP. He ruled out the need for an inquiry, stating that the case was “very clear” and involved cross-border criminals attempting to loot before retreating.
Govt expecting peaceful Independence Day
Home Minister Prestone Tynsong on Wednesday expressed confidence that the state’s Independence Day celebrations will be held peacefully across all districts, with no untoward incidents anticipated.
Speaking to reporters after a review meeting with Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) from all districts, Tynsong said both civil and police administrations have assured that adequate security measures are in place. “I’m sure we will be able to celebrate peacefully, and no incident will happen during the celebration,” he said.
Dismissing claims that public participation in recent years had been poor, the Home Minister said records show a “very, very satisfactory” turnout, except during occasions when heavy rain disrupted events. “I am sure in this coming celebration also, people will fully take part as a token of gratitude, remembering the struggles and sacrifices made to gain our independence,” he added.
Separately, the government announced that Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma will unful the national flag and take the salute at the Independence Day ceremonial parade in Shillong. Deputy CM Sniawbhalang Dhar will do the honours in Tura, with cabinet minister and governing coalition MLAs assigned to other locations.
