By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 6: The Jaintia Students Movement (JSM) has called for an investigation into the alleged excessive use of tear gas by police during a peaceful protest organised by the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) in Mawryngkneng.
JSM president L.S. Rymbai condemned the police actions as an excessive use of force that jeopardised public safety and violated democratic values, noting that the tear gas deployment caused significant distress to civilians, including vulnerable populations such as children, women, and the elderly.
He highlighted that this incident showcased a flagrant disregard for human rights, leading to suffering among innocent civilians.
Rymbai emphasised the necessity for law enforcement to be trained in non-violent crowd control methods and called for the repeal of any policies that sanction the use of excessive force against peaceful protesters.
He criticised the government for permitting police to act violently, thus demonstrating a lack of concern for the safety of citizens.
Additionally, Rymbai expressed solidarity with those affected by the incident and urged the state government to resolve MCTODA’s concerns promptly while respecting citizens’ rights.
Echoing the JSM sentiment, the Mawryngkneng Dorbar Shnong denounced the excessive use of force by police against peaceful protesters and stressed that the local community would not accept such aggressive police actions that foster fear and insecurity.
Sordar of Mawryngkneng, Peter J. Lawai, described the police’s conduct as unacceptable and warned of potential drastic measures if such behaviour persists.
Lawai accused authorities of sidelining the traditional governance role of the Dorbar Shnong in handling village matters and stated that villagers’ anger was escalating due to police actions.
He reiterated the importance of addressing MCTODA’s legitimate demands to prevent unrest within the state.
He clarified that the Dorbar had not called for large gatherings but rather urged residents to remain alert in response to potential ongoing aggressive actions from authorities.
He concluded with a warning that the protest stood as a reminder to the government that it cannot stifle the voices of the population, particularly marginalised groups.
