Guwahati: The situation remains tense in Motphran, Mawkhar and adjoining areas of Shillong as violence erupted for the second day when a mob of hundreds went on rampage and pelted stones amid curfew in the areas under Lumdiengjri police station, including Cantonment Beat House.
The curfew was promulgated under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state. Meanwhile, internet services have been suspended to avoid circulation of unsubstantiated content on social media.
“Curfew has been imposed with effect from 4am today (June 1) until further orders,” said PS Dkhar, District Magistrate, East Khasi Hills.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Friday convened an emergency meeting with home department and senior police officials to restore security and normalcy in the state. State Home Minister James K Sangma said stern action will be taken against miscreants.
“We have asked the Deputy Commissioner to talk with senior citizens and concerned people. We appeal to the civilians to not engage in violence and unlawful activities, and not to take law into their own hands. If required, more forces will be deployed. Few arrests have already been made,” said James Sangma.
Clashes broke out late on Thursday between two groups over reports of a bus handyman being allegedly assaulted by some residents of Them Mawlong (Sweeper’s lane) earlier in the day. The situation turned volatile following reports of a stand-off between the group of Shillong Transport Public Service (STPS) drivers and residents of the Punjabi Line area.
The mob pelted stones on police personnel and allegedly attempted arson. More forces were rushed to the spot and police resorted to firing tear gas shells to disperse the mob. Anti-riot vehicles and fire tenders were deployed to control the situation.
Sources said a journalist and few others were injured in the clashes. Police have reportedly seized ‘Molotov cocktails’ from the possession of a few from the mob. Security has been beefed up throughout the city.
(With inputs from Purbasha Bhattacharya)
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