Shillong, April 16: Amid reports of pressure groups allegedly distributing donation-cum-extortion slips to shops in Iewduh market, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who also holds the Home (Police) portfolio, has assured that the government is taking the matter seriously.

Speaking to reporters, Tynsong said, “As far as these slips or demand notes are concerned, the law is there. The existing law is always applicable. I’ve already instructed our district administration, including the Superintendent of Police, to communicate to all stakeholders — not only in Iewduh but across the state — that if they have any kind of doubt or feel threatened by demands for donation or what I should call forced subscription, they should not hesitate to report it to the police at any time.”

He emphasized that immediate action will be taken once such incidents are reported. “That is my request to all concerned — please don’t hesitate. Don’t have any doubt. You can just call us, even over the phone. We already have a standing emergency number where you can reach us anytime, and we will respond accordingly,” he added.

The issue gained further attention after a photo showing one of the alleged extortion slips — reportedly issued by pressure groups to non-tribal traders in Iewduh — went viral on social media.

Superintendent of Police, East Khasi Hills, Vivek Syiem, on Tuesday also urged shopkeepers and business owners to come forward with any information regarding extortion attempts. He clarified that such actions are illegal and should not be seen as voluntary donations.

Syiem acknowledged the fear among traders but assured that anonymity would be maintained. He further encouraged them to at least inform the police about the time and place of such incidents, even if they are unwilling to file an FIR.

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