SHILLONG, OCT 9: A night curfew has been imposed in Lapangap village under the West Jaintia Hills district on Thursday following a clash between two groups, resulting in one death and several injuries.
Deputy Chief Minister in-charge Home (Police) Prestone Tynsong confirmed the incident and stated that the clash occurred despite efforts by police from both Meghalaya and Assam to maintain peace.
According to Tynsong, the incident happened when residents of Lapangap were allowed to collect paddy from their fields under police supervision. However, a group from the Karbi side arrived, leading to a fight that resulted in one fatality.
The deceased was identified as 45-year-old Orivel Timung, son of Sarpang Eh Timung from Tahpat village under the Karbi community. Few police personnel and villagers also sustained injuries during the incident.
“To make sure that things do not go out of control, the government has decided to clamp night curfew (at Lapangap village). I also came to know that even the Assam government has also clamped night curfew in that particular area. Hopefully by tonight we will be able to control the situation,” the deputy chief minister told reporters.
Asked if a joint enquiry would be set up into the incident, Tynsong however said, “Right now nothing of that sort because certain procedures are there.”
“From our side, few police personnel also sustained some injuries (but not that serious) and even few villagers also sustained injuries. An FIR has been filed in the police station,” he added.
Appealing to the public to remain calm and respect the law, the deputy CM said, “Right now my only appeal to our own people is better to be cool and calm and as of now respect the law because curfew has been clamped and they should not come out and let the police force take full control of that area.”
According to him, the issue is being taken up at the level of chief secretary, DGP, DC and SP.
By Our Reporter
