Shillong, Nov 22: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma has condemned the unlawful attack by the Assam Police on Tuesday morning at Mukroh, Block 1, West Jaiñtia Hills District, Meghalaya, in which 5 persons from Meghalaya and one from Assam died.
The Chief Minister of Meghalaya expressed his deep condolences to the victims and has announced an ex-gratia amount of Rs. 5 lakhs to the victim’s family and an FIR has been registered by the Meghalaya Police.
“6 persons have died due to the firing by the Assam Police and Assam Forest Guards…as per the reports, a truck carrying timber was pursued by the Assam Forest Guards with the Assam Police… Assam Police and Assam Forest Guards detained the truck at Mukroh Village. On hearing this, the locals gathered in large numbers and surrounded the Assam Police and Assam Forest guards, this let to the firing by the Assam Police in which five persons from Meghalaya died and 1 Forest Guard of Assam died… the injured persons have been shifted to Barato PHC and Ïalong Civil Hospital,” informed Sangma.
He said on hearing about the incident, the Home Minister, the District Magistrate, the SP and other Magistrates have rushed to the spot at Mukroh Village.
He also informed that in respect of the deceased, the State government has decided to cancel all official festivals including the Cherry Blossom Festival.
The Cabinet meeting is scheduled to be held on Tuesday at 5:30 PM to decide on the next course of action with respect to the incident at Mukroh Village.
Also, CM has appealed to all the citizens to maintain peace and harmony and to pray for the family members of the victims.
“The State government is taking all steps necessary to ensure that law and order maintained in the State,” he added.
He has also has called for an emergency meeting with the traditional heads, religious leaders and members of civil societies to discuss, to appeal and the need to stand together in this difficult time as a state and citizens.
I appeal to all citizens of the State to pray for the departed souls and their families.
I also appeal to our citizens to maintain peace and harmony in the State. The State Government is taking all the necessary steps to ensure that law & order is maintained. pic.twitter.com/LkdSGuHynG
— Conrad Sangma (@SangmaConrad) November 22, 2022
On being asked about the lack of Meghalaya Police on spot, Sangma said the Meghalaya Police were there but were outnumbered by the Assam Police.
He also further clarified that “The Mukroh Village does not fall under disputed area but the village very much falls within Meghalaya.”
“Yes I have spoken to the Assam CM, our discussion was very brief and has assured that whatever can be done from the Assam government and whatever cooperation required the Assam CM will give his support,” added CM.
