Meghalaya makes history as it appoints Idashisha Nongrang as its inaugural woman Director General of Police (DGP), succeeding LR Bishnoi upon his retirement. Nongrang, an IPS officer from the 1992 batch, assumes office after serving as Director General of Civil Defence and Home Guard in the state. Her tenure as DGP is fixed for two years. In a groundbreaking move, Nongrang announces plans to hold weekly public meetings every Thursday from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M., starting May 30. These sessions aim to provide a direct platform for citizens to voice grievances to the state’s highest police authority, fostering better police-public relations and addressing community concerns more effectively.
Upon taking office, DGP Nongrang underscores the importance of women’s perspectives in shaping policies, expressing her commitment to leveraging this unique viewpoint to enhance the safety and well-being of women in the state. She aims to improve women’s sense of security and accessibility to police services. Acknowledging the alarming rise in crimes against women in Meghalaya, Nongrang emphasizes the need for reevaluating strategies and potentially adopting new approaches to tackle the issue more effectively. Additionally, she prioritizes addressing the growing drug menace, recognizing it as a pressing concern requiring immediate action.
Nongrang’s appointment heralds a significant shift in Meghalaya’s policing strategy, marked by proactive community engagement and accessibility. By establishing regular public interactions, she aims to bridge the gap between the police force and the community, fostering trust and cooperation.