The Khasi Students’ Union (KSU) has intensified its protest over allegations of illegal money collection from trucks along the Shillong Bypass, demanding the resignation of East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem.
The union put up banners and posters at several locations, including the SP’s office, the Secretariat, Khyndailad and Motphran, raising questions over police accountability in connection with the allegations. The KSU has also called for an independent probe and strict action against personnel found involved.
The controversy began after the KSU alleged that police personnel were collecting between ₹200 and ₹500 from trucks at Mawkhanu and Thangshalai. The union said it had recorded videos during a verification exercise and questioned whether senior police officials were aware of the alleged practice.
Following the allegations, East Khasi Hills Police ordered a preliminary inquiry. Four police personnel—one Head Constable and three Unarmed Branch Constables—have been suspended pending inquiry, while the Officer-in-Charge of Diengpasoh Police Station has been transferred. Police said the personnel had been deployed for naka duty and truck security, and that no money was recovered during the preliminary verification.
SP Vivek Syiem has said the allegations require a thorough and impartial examination and reiterated that there is zero tolerance for illegal collection, extortion or corruption by police personnel. Truck drivers have also been urged not to make any payment to police and to report any such demand through 112 or the Shillong Police Control Room.
The KSU, meanwhile, maintains that the action taken so far is not sufficient and is pressing for an independent investigation to establish responsibility at all levels. The matter is now under departmental inquiry, with further action expected based on its findings.