SHILLONG : East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal has ordered an independent magisterial inquiry into the alleged police extortion case raised by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), stating that the police department’s report alone is not sufficient to establish the facts.

Baranwal said on Wednesday that the inquiry was initiated after a video allegedly showing extortion went viral on social media.

The East Khasi Hills Superintendent of Police’s office has already submitted its report, but the Deputy Commissioner said an independent inquiry was necessary to hear all sides and establish what actually happened.

“The report from the police is only representing the side from the police,” Baranwal said, explaining the need for a broader investigation.

A senior Additional District Magistrate (ADM) has been assigned to conduct the magisterial inquiry and submit the findings by October 31.

The inquiry will record statements from the complainants, people who visited the check-post, the police constables concerned and potentially other transporters who may have relevant information.

Baranwal said all relevant stakeholders would be summoned and questioned as necessary to ensure a thorough and comprehensive investigation.

The inquiry aims to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and determine who was at fault.