Centre Deploys Additional Security Forces to Restore Peace in Meghalaya, Confirms CM

Shillong, February 29, 2020:

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, in a message relayed to the media earlier today, confirmed that the Centre has sent security forces to the State in order to restore law and order in the capital.

The CM addressed the media after a meeting at the Secretariat where t"he entire law and order situation" in the State was discussed at length.

The Chief Minister has been informed that eight people have been arrested after the , and cases have been registered. The Meghalaya CM appealed all the people of East Khasi Hills to ensure that peace comes back and expressed solidarity and support with the deceased. Announcing an ex gratia sum of Rs 2 lakh to the next of kin of the deceased, the CM also informed that a magisterial enquiry has been initiated.

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The CM also informed that manpower is being brought in to ensure the restoration of law and order and informed that Central forces have also been brought in to ensure that the state "By evening, we will have enough manpower to bring peace and order", the CM asserted.

Different measures have been taken last night, the CM said, and further informed that forces from the Centre also have arrived in Meghalaya. Meanwhile, the Internet blockage, that was imposed to prevent the spread of communal sentiments, has also been continuing.

It may be recalled that on Friday, the state government imposed curfew in Shillong and adjoining areas, and telecom services were snapped in six districts. One person has been killed in the clashes that began on Friday over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act or CAA row.

Meghalaya government observed that “law and order situation has arisen in East Khasi Hills District including incidents of vandalism and arson which have a potential to disturb public peace and tranquility and cause a threat to public safety…”

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