SHILLONG, MAR 7: Meghalaya governor KK Paul said that wiping out corruption at all levels will be the top most objective of the present government. He informed that the new Lokayukta Bills which is being brought to the assembly soon will felicitate eradication of corruption at all levels in the government.
Addressing the opening day of the Meghalaya assembly budget session on Friday Paul told the house that the government is committed to address the issue of corruption through effective and appropriate legislative measures.
Paul said, “A new Lokayukta Bill, in conformity with the model Bill recommended by the Select Committee of the Parliament and based on extensive consultations held with various stakeholders is being brought to the assembly during the current session.” He said another legislation providing for social audit is being worked upon.
However regarding the law and order situation Paul said increased activities of Garo hills based militant outfit the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) and its growing influence in Garo hills and parts of West Khasi hills is a matter of serious concern.
Paul also revealed that in 2013, 108 militants were arrested and 19 of them had surrendered. Large quantities of arms and ammunition were seized, he said.
Paul, however, assured the assembly that the government has been making concerted efforts to end the hardship of the common people and restore peace and normalcy in the Garo hills.
Paul said, “The settlement with ANVC has reached the final stages of approval by the central government. The state government is keen on getting this done before the elections to the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC). It is with this intent that the term of the present GHADC has been extended by six months.”
Saying that the ensuring peace, order and safety of common citizens is the foremost duty of the administration, Paul said the police force will be firm in dealing with the elements that indulge in unlawful activities.
However at the same time, Paul said the government will continue to engage in a sustained dialogue with the agitating groups in order to find solutions to such problems.
Speaking about the influx problem, Paul said the state police has been making conscious efforts to check infiltration and last year 4137 illegal migrants were detected of which 169 were prosecuted and t he remaining 3968 were sent back directly.
Paul also said, to give a boost to the anti-infiltration efforts of the police department, the government has appointed a Director for the newly created Directorate of Anti Infiltration which is now functional.
Touching on the crimes against women and children Paul also said there is a rising trend in crimes against women and children with an increase of about 23.14 percent in 2013 as compared to 2012. He said such cases are now being taken up by the fast track courts and in the special court and that the anti human trafficking units have been set up at Shillong and Tura.- By Our Reporter
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