Meghalaya: Government launches probe into DGP's alleged fake number plate

Meghalaya government has initiated an investigation into allegations that the state's Director General of Police (DGP), Lajja Ram Bishnoi, used a fake number plate on his vehicle, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong informed on May 10. 

Tynsong stated that the government received an FIR the previous day accusing the top cop of misusing and tampering with the registration number plate of his vehicle. He said a case has been registered, and the probe has just begun. The deputy CM appealed for patience, noting that the investigation must be allowed to proceed, after which the law will take its course.

When questioned about potential action against the DGP, Tynsong refrained from speculation, explaining that their duty is to attend to the FIR. He said the government's attention has been drawn, and the case registered, but cautioned against drawing conclusions as an investigation is underway. Tynsong noted that an affidavit detailing the probe's findings will be submitted to the court, which will determine if wrongdoing occurred.

On the possibility of action against members of a police inquiry committee previously formed to investigate a vehicle scam, Tynsong stated that the FIR filer has linked it to an older case still pending court decision. As such, he declined to comment, leaving it for the court to decide.

Former Assistant Inspector General GK Iangrai filed an FIR against Bishnoi on May 9, accusing the DGP of misusing and tampering with his vehicle's number plate. Iangrai stated that Bishnoi arrived in Shillong on May 17, 2022, to take up the DGP position. Bishnoi used a white Kia Carnival registered with the government of Assam, but allegedly swapped its number plate with that of a Verna.