Five cops injured in Shella clash

SHILLONG: Five police personnel were injured following a clash between the villagers and the police in Shella village, East Khasi Hills, on Monday over the appointment of a traditional head.
Shella residents Wantei Kupar Swett and Tiewdop Tiewdop opposed the claim of Roy Kupar Synrem as the secretary of Shella Dorbar Shnong.
They decided to go ahead with holding the Dorbar on Monday which, however, resulted in a clash between the police and supporters of Swett and Tiewdop.
Following the incident, a complaint was lodged against Swett and Tiewdop for ‘willfully and deliberately holding meetings on various occasions in violation of court order, which restricted anyone from holding any meetings until further notice’.
A police source said, “There were 5 police personnel who were injured – 4 females and 1 armed branch male constable. There was no injury on the side of the public.”
At least 70 police personnel were deployed for law and order duty in Shella.
Police said section 144 CrPC was imposed following the clash.
The police used maximum restraint since around 150-200 women, including some who are pregnant, were in the forefront during the clash of the villagers with the police.
The police have decided to submit a report in this regard to the court as the Dorbar was called illegally and the role of the police was to stop it.