SHILLONG: Traffic restriction will continue at Them Iew Mawlong till the matter is resolved, said a senior police officer on Friday.
East Khasi Hills SP Davis Marak told reporters that restrictions were imposed to maintain law and order. “The restrictions will continue till the time the situation is fully normal and the matter is solved at an appropriate forum,” he said.
Them Iew Mawlong, or Harijan Colony, became the genesis of violence in the city on May 31 when local boys were assaulted. Protesters had resorted to stone pelting in different parts of the city, especially at Motphran, to keep authorities on their toes.
Marak said there is some tension that may escalate again and hence police are cautious.
The police had put up barricades at the entry points of the colony and traffic movement was completely restricted. This had irked opposition leader Mukul Sangma and he had criticised the state government for failing to ensure law and order. The barricades are still there to stop movement of vehicles.
“We are keeping vigil and police are on regular duty. If there is anything serious, the police machinery will gear up,” said East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner P S Dkhar.
He said the magisterial inquiry report into the incident has already been submitted to the government and the High Level Committee will take a call on the matter.
The High Court had asked the state government to ensure peace in the area during hearing on the matter.
