Meghalaya: Hills Farmers’ Union Demands SIT Investigation Into Alleged Collection Network

The Hills Farmers’ Union (HFU) has urged the Meghalaya government to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe alleged illegal collection of money from vehicles transporting livestock into the state. The demand was raised during a meeting with Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma at the Taraghar State Guest House, where HFU representatives submitted documents and other material they said supported their allegations. The union claimed that payments were being routed through a private bank account and alleged that some police personnel may have been involved in the collection process. According to HFU representatives, drivers were allegedly provided a contact number after making a so-called “direct entry” payment, following which vehicles were tracked and movement coordinated through individuals positioned at different points along the route. The union said it had conducted a preliminary inquiry before bringing the matter to the Chief Minister’s attention and called for an impartial investigation into the alleged system. It also urged the Chief Minister’s Office to direct the Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner to immediately stop the alleged collection practice in the district. HFU further sought the suspension of officials, if necessary, if their involvement is established during the investigation. Chief Minister Sangma reportedly assured the delegation that he would take up the matter with senior police officials and the Home Department and pursue appropriate action. Copies of the union’s representation were also submitted to Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home (Police), DGP Idashisha Nongrang, and Ri-Bhoi Superintendent of Police Giri Prasad. The HFU’s demand comes as the organisation pushes for tighter screening and regulation of livestock entering Meghalaya, particularly amid concerns linked to a recent disease outbreak affecting pigs.