SHILLONG, Nov 17: Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Monday inaugurated the newly constructed Jengjal Police Station building at Jengjal, West Garo Hills, calling it one of the best-designed and strategically located police stations in the state.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the station’s location makes it accessible not only for citizens but also for police personnel, enabling swift and efficient delivery of services. He expressed gratitude to the Nokma and local residents for donating land for the project.
Sangma informed that the police station has been built as per Government of India norms and reiterated the state government’s commitment to ensuring that all police stations across Meghalaya are upgraded, renovated or newly constructed with uniform standards.
He highlighted that earlier, even minor repairs such as painting required government sanction, slowing down the process. “With the Police Infrastructure Renovation Fund, SPs can now take up renovation works without waiting for state government approval,” he said, adding that several stations have already benefited from this initiative.
On manpower shortages, the Chief Minister announced that the process of filling more than 3,000 police vacancies is nearing completion. “This is perhaps one of the largest recruitments in the history of the state,” he said, noting that the recruitment is now in its final stage — the personal interview — and will significantly improve manpower availability.
Sangma also stressed the importance of technology in modern policing. He said the government is working to introduce advanced systems for cybercrime management, law-and-order surveillance, and digital monitoring to bring Meghalaya Police on par with other states.
Reminding police personnel of their crucial and challenging role, he said, “While you need to be firm, do not forget the human touch — care, empathy, and sensitivity to the needs of the people. We are here to serve, and if we forget that, we fail in our duties.”
DGP Highlights Modern Facilities, Community Focus
DGP Idashisha Nongrang, who also addressed the gathering, recalled her earlier posting in the area and said the new police station represents a major step forward for the department. The building includes all essential facilities — a general room, lock-up, officer-in-charge’s room, women help desk, child-friendly spaces, and areas designated for community meetings and outreach.
“This building addresses immediate requirements while preparing for the future needs of Meghalaya Police,” she said, reaffirming the department’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the state.
Leaders Emphasise Importance of Peace and Infrastructure
MIDC Chairman James K Sangma thanked the Chief Minister for continuous support to the Dadenggre constituency and said the new police station fulfills a longstanding public demand. Calling it a “significant step towards strengthening law and order,” he noted that modern policing requires modern infrastructure and added that the upgraded facility would boost confidence and efficiency among police personnel.
James also acknowledged the leadership of the DGP for maintaining a conducive environment that enables development.
In his remarks, JFK Marak, IPS, said the station — notified in July 2017 — had been functioning from a rented Assam-type house for years. The new structure, he said, will greatly enhance the police’s capacity to serve the growing and strategically important Jengjal area.
Vibhor Aggarwal, IAS, said the inauguration comes at a crucial time for Jengjal, a key junction connecting West, North, and East Garo Hills. With major events like the Me’gong Festival and the upcoming revival of Baljek Airport, the new police station marks a major milestone for law and order and regional development.
Cultural Performances Mark the Event
Students of St Anthony’s School, Jengjal, and performers from the Rhythm School of Music added colour to the programme with special presentations.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Abraham T Sangma, IPS, Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills.
