Shillong: Curfew imposed, Internet services suspended after clashes between groups
In 14 parts of Meghalaya's capital Shillong, curfew was imposed and Internet services suspended on Friday morning following violent clashes between Shillong Transport Public Service (STPS) drivers and Them Iew Mawlong area residents. On late Thursday night, police tried using tear gas on the enraged mob but in vain. A journalist and four civilians were reportedly injured in the clashes.
Why Shillong was brought to a standstill
On Thursday, a state affair bus blocked a tap, to which a woman went to fetch water. In the bus, the driver's son and a 17-year-old nephew were seated. When the three informed woman that they couldn't move the bus, she returned with locals who allegedly thrashed the boys. To show solidarity toward their colleagues, a group of drivers converged at Motphran to avenge the assault.
Miscreants set four vehicles on fire, police swing to action
After a complaint was filed in the Cantonment Beat House, the matter was solved amicably. But later in the night, both groups pelted stones at each other. In Motphran, Umsohson, Rynjah and Nongmynsong, miscreants set four vehicles on fire, said district police chief of East Khasi Hills. The police arrested three miscreants and seized petrol bombs and other sharp weapons.
Meanwhile, the administration is not taking any chances
Sensing anger, Meghalaya police roped in more armed officers. But, when it didn't help a curfew was imposed. "We will maintain high vigil as one never knows; anything can change in a fraction of a second. But we are well prepared and will ensure that law and order are maintained at all cost," the magistrate told a daily.
