MHA okays six companies to check violence

By Our Reporter

SHLILLONG: As the prevailing law and order in the city has gone from bad to worse, the state government has sought five additional companies of central armed paramilitary forces.
DGP S B Singh, who was on leave till June 4, rushed to Shillong and held a meeting on Saturday.
Singh said the Ministry of Home Affairs granted six companies, four CRPF and two ITBP, to tackle the situation.
The move is to instill confidence in the minds of city residents.
In the absence of adequate security forces, traders in Police Bazar and Bara Bazar kept the shutters down on Saturday.
In addition to the central forces, there are personnel of SF-10 on the ground, besides one company of CRPF personnel from North Garo Hills and the existing forces.
The gazetted officers like SP, additional SP and DSPs are also assisting the forces. Till date, more than 10 security personnel were injured due to stone pelting.
Home Minister James Sangma said mobile internet and SMS services will be suspended for two more days.
Earlier, speaking to media persons, James said the forces will be deployed strategically.
James said since many of the demands, including the arrest of the accused, have been fulfilled, agitators should stop.
Making it clear that the government will take action against anybody breaking the law, James said one of the demands is relocation of the colony. “We will engage with all stakeholders and find a solution,” he said.