Curfew imposed in Shillong; mobile internet, SMS services stalled

As protests escalated in Meghalaya against the Citizenship Act on Thursday (December 12), the government blocked mobile internet and SMS services across the state for 48 hours from 5 pm onwards, while the district administration of East Khasi Hills imposed an indefinite curfew in certain parts of Shillong.

The areas where Section 144 has been imposed include Jaiaw, Mawkhar, Umsohsun, Riatsamthiah, Wahingdohm, Mission, Mawprem, Lumdiengjri, Lama Villa, Qualapatty, Wahthapbru, Sunny Hill, Cantonment, Butcher Road and Mawlonghat.

Earlier, the Meghalaya police had circulated an advisory on Twitter, urging the public to refrain from sharing rumours on social media as it may “incite violence or disturb public tranquillity.”

Social media websites on Thursday were replete with photos and videos of protesters thronging the streets of Shillong. Reports said some agitators went on a rampage, vandalising shops, vehicles and public property at Motphran.

A mob reportedly torched a vehicle parked at Umsohsun, and hurled petrol bombs at the vehicle owned by a shopkeeper in the area. They also set aflame clothes of a vendor at Khyndai Lad area.

Worried over the mob fury, shopkeepers at Police Bazar scurried to shut their shops.

Protesters in Williamnagar shouted slogans of ‘Conrad go back’ when Chief Minister Conrad Sangma arrived to take part in an event.

In view of the growing violence, police were deployed at Motphran and Khyndai Lad areas.

(With inputs from agencies)