Shillong (Meghalaya) [India], November 22 (HBTV): Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Friday announced that the government will introduce a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on the use of sirens, tinted glasses, and flickering lights in the state, which will be strictly implemented to reduce public inconvenience.

The Chief Minister said, 'I have been receiving a large number of complaints and concerns from citizens about what people are calling VIP culture. It is, of course, a matter of concern. But we also have to look at it from multiple angles. There is a concern for security and safety, which should not be mixed with the aspect of culture. Safety and security are one aspect, which is something we personally feel is important and should not be compromised. But if that safety and security concern becomes more of an attitude, and it is used in the wrong way, then I think that really is the problem.'

CM Sangma informed, 'Last week, I had a meeting with the Deputy Chief Minister in charge of Home, all other officials, the DGP, and the Chief Secretary, and we have asked to prepare an SOP as to who can and who cannot use sirens, tinted glasses, and flickering lights. Once prepared, the SOP will be strictly implemented, including the protocols to be followed while using sirens, flickering lights, and other devices.'

The Chief Minister stated that the SOP will be presented before the Cabinet next week. 'We will be creating a strict SOP regarding who can and who cannot use the sirens, tinted glasses, or flickering lights; where they can be used and how they should be used.'

However, he emphasized that safety and security remain a priority. There are defined protocols for individuals under different categories of security, such as Z plus, Z, and Y, which cannot be compromised. 'Those aspects need to be balanced. As I had mentioned, keeping the safety and security matter in front of us, we will work towards ensuring that this safety and security is not abused in a manner in which it becomes a nuisance to the public. The balancing of these two is what is required,' the Chief Minister added.

'We hope that through this SOP, which will come out very soon, and which we will be passing in the Cabinet, we should be able to minimise the inconvenience caused to the public,' he concluded.   

(ANI)