Deepak Singh 

The recent late-night scuffle between two groups in Laitumkhrah in Shillong, on the intervening night of July 13-14, 2023, has sparked a series of extreme measures by the district administration of East Khasi Hills. In response to the incident, which involved the torching of vehicles and stone pelting at the police station, the administration had imposed a clampdown, shutting down all establishments, especially eateries, restaurants, roadside food hawkers, and malls by 10 PM. However, this knee-jerk reaction to the incident raises concerns about the logic and proportionality of the response, and its potential impact on tourism and the state’s image.

Although the administration has modified its order on July 13, 2023, after anguish expressed from several quarters, extending the night clampdown from 10 PM to 11.30 PM, but the main position of the administration to see curfew like restrictions as solution continues to be the main problem, which is seen as lacking maturity in handling situations.

The decision to shut down the entire city in the wake of the Laitumkhrah incident appears to be an excessive response. While it is essential to maintain law and order, the administration’s choice to enforce a blanket shutdown seems to lack logical reasoning. Rather than addressing the specific problem area, the authorities have punished the entire city, inconveniencing law-abiding citizens, and potentially alienating tourists.

Meghalaya, including Shillong, has been striving to promote tourism as a significant revenue source. Nightlife, including restaurants, eateries, and entertainment establishments, plays a crucial role in attracting visitors, both domestic and international. By imposing a curfew-like situation where establishments must close by 10 PM, now 11.30 PM, the district administration risks dampening the vibrant nightlife that tourists seek. This decision undermines the state’s efforts to position itself as a tourist-friendly destination and could potentially drive visitors away.

More importantly, in a globalized world, where news travels fast, the knee-jerk reaction by the district administration of East Khasi Hills sends a concerning message to the world. By effectively locking down the entire city in response to one isolated incident, the administration portrays a lack of confidence in its ability to maintain law and order. This disproportionate reaction may create the impression that the state is unable to handle even minor incidents, further damaging its reputation and deterring potential tourists and investors.

Instead of resorting to widespread shutdowns, there are more effective and proportionate measures that could be taken to address law and order concerns. Increasing policing and surveillance in troubled areas, imposing stricter penalties for criminal activities, and enhancing community engagement through dialogue and awareness campaigns are practical options. By adopting a more targeted and focused approach, authorities can prevent the recurrence of such incidents without sacrificing the city’s vitality and reputation.

In conclusion, the recent clampdown on the city of Shillong following the late-night scuffle in Laitumkhrah raises significant concerns about the logic, proportionality, and long-term implications of the administration’s action besides raising serious questions on its ability to maintain law and order in the state. While ensuring law and order is essential, it is equally important to consider the impact of such measures on tourism, and the livelihoods of its residents. By adopting more targeted and effective strategies, engaging with the community, and preserving the vibrant nightlife that attracts visitors, authorities need to strike a balance between security and the city’s economic well-being. It is vital for the administration to reassess its approach and adopt a more thoughtful and measured response to incidents, keeping everybody’s interests in mind and also showing its maturity in handling situations.

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