Meghalaya: Garo Students' Union demands transfer of Williamnagar DTO over alleged misconduct

Members of the Garo Students’ Union (GSU), Eastern Zone, staged a protest outside the District Transport Office in Williamnagar on Tuesday, demanding the immediate transfer of District Transport Officer (DTO) John Bugner M. Marak. The protest was prompted by a series of allegations regarding the officer’s alleged dereliction of duty, absenteeism, and unprofessional behaviour.

According to a statement by GSU Eastern Zone President Goera R. Sangma, the union has formally submitted a written demand seeking the transfer of the DTO from East Garo Hills. The GSU claims that the officer has consistently failed to report to his office during official working hours and instead operates from his personal quarters. Citizens visiting the office are reportedly forced to obtain signatures and services from the officer’s residence.

The GSU further alleged that the DTO does not carry out his duties effectively, and has at times used harsh and inappropriate language while dealing with the public. "Such behavior is unacceptable from a public servant. The officer lacks the empathy and commitment expected from someone in his position," said Sangma.

The situation reportedly escalated on Friday, May 30, when GSU members visited the officer's quarters to obtain signatures for driving license documents. According to the union, they were dismissed without any assistance, reinforcing their concerns over the DTO’s conduct.

In response, the GSU announced that they will intensify their agitation if the government does not act promptly. Plans for a poster campaign, written protests, and continued picketing have been declared by the union leaders as part of their next course of action.

The GSU emphasized that they are not opposed to the department but are compelled to act in the public interest due to the officer’s continued negligence.