Meghalaya CAA clashes: Curfew reimposed, internet services suspended

Curfew was reimposed on Saturday (February 29) noon in some areas of Shillong town after one person was killed in clashes between Khasi Students Union (KSU) members and non-tribals during a meeting on the amended citizenship law and inner line permit (ILP), officials said.

The curfew was imposed on Friday night following clashes and lifted at 8 AM on Saturday. However, a ban on mobile internet services was continuing in six districts, they said.

Even as the situation in the state is under control, five additional companies of armed police forces have been deployed in sensitive areas of Lumdiengjri and Sadar and a close watch is being maintained, an official said.

Related news: Delhi riots: Assam college lecturer blames BJP, RSS in Facebook post, held

The clashes between the KSU members and non-tribals broke out during the anti-CAA and pro-ILP meeting held in the Ichamati area of East Khasi Hills district close to the Indo-Bangladesh border on Friday.

Mobile internet services have been suspended in six districts — East Jaintia Hills, West Jaintia Hills, East Khasi Hills, Ri Bhoi, West Khasi Hills and South West Khasi hills — from Friday night for 48-hours and SMSes will be limited to five per day, they said.

Police have arrested six persons in connection with the attack on the rally at Ichamati on Friday leading to the death of a pro-ILP activist, officials said.

Related news: Delhi riots: Blame thy neighbours? A big no, say citizens

Meghalaya Governor Tathagata Roy has appealed to people to stay calm and not pay attention to rumours.

“I appeal to all citizens in Meghalaya, tribal or non-tribal, keep calm. Don’t spread rumours and don’t listen to rumours. The chief minister has spoken to me. He assured me he is taking all the necessary steps. The prime requirement now is to maintain law and order,” the governor said in a statement.

Meghalaya Home Minister Lahkmen Rymbui has condemned the incident in Ichamati and said a magisterial inquiry has been initiated into the incident to find out the truth.

He said the curfew was clamped and mobile internet services suspended as a precautionary measure.

(With inputs from agencies)