Raphael Warjri

The Voice of the People Party State Youth Wing has raised questions over the alleged release of a man accused of  forcibly pulling earrings from a woman's ears at Laban in Shillong.

The VPP Youth Wing on 24 September, 2026,l met Shillong City Superintendent of Police Dangsan Khyriem following a complaint regarding the incident.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, VPP Youth Wing President Marbud Dkhar, Executive Member Jeremiah Kharshyiing and David Umwi claimed that the accused was released within 24 hours of the incident, allegedly after being identified as a drug-dependent person.

The VPP leaders further claimed that the absence of a rehabilitation centre was cited as one of the reasons in connection with the accused's release.

The development has prompted the VPP to question the existing mechanism for dealing with repeat offenders who are also battling drug dependency.

While acknowledging the efforts of the police in tackling such incidents, the party expressed concern that such acts could continue if there is no effective system of accountability, rehabilitation and follow-up action.

The VPP Youth Wing has sought clarity on the circumstances surrounding the accused's release and called for appropriate action under the law.