By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 6: Tension flared again at the Mawryngkneng junction on Thursday after the police fired tear gas shells to disperse the members of the Meghalaya Commercial Truck Owners and Drivers Association (MCTODA) who had gathered to continue their protest against the movement of cement and clinker-laden trucks to Jaintia Hills.
According to reports, the incident occurred at around 8 am when the protestors, undeterred by the arrest of four of their leaders on Wednesday, attempted to stop trucks bound for cement factories.
The protestors allegedly blocked the road and demanded that the trucks return, prompting the police to intervene.
When they refused to disperse, the police reportedly fired tear gas shells to control the situation. In the ensuing chaos, a tear gas shell struck a tourist taxi that was carrying a patient from Jowai to Shillong.
Witnesses alleged that police personnel confiscated the key of the taxi, thus delaying the patient’s travel. The patient was later transported to Shillong by an ambulance.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from local residents, particularly women. They slammed the police for allegedly instilling fear among people.
They said the firing of tear gas shells endangered bystanders, including children, and accused the police of contributing to the breakdown of law and order in Mawryngkneng.
Local MLA Heavingstone Kharpran also condemned the police for using “excessive force” during the incident.
Speaking to reporters, he said the protest by the MCTODA was peaceful from the very beginning. He termed the police action as unacceptable and uncalled for.
The MLA urged the state government to initiate direct talks with the MCTODA instead of leaving the issue entirely to the discretion of district authorities.
