A scuffle broke out between two groups on the issue of coal mining at Chokpot in South Garo Hills district.
Sources said that the incident happened on Monday between those who oppose and support mining of coal during a meeting held at the Warimagre Agricultural Training Hall.
The meeting was convened by the Chokpot Coal Supply Association to discuss the issue of promoting coal mining at Paromgre village.
The opposing residents said that Nokma had sold the land to one George S Marak without consulting the village and clan leaders.
The dispute has been going on since last year when the Chokpot organizations urged the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC) not to issue NOC for coal mining.
Those in the opposition alleged that the drilling work for coal mining in the area had resumed this year and when the parties visited the area, the Nokma claimed to have signed the documents without understanding them.
Many of the opponents and organizations are against coal mining in the area as they fear that it would destroy tourist attractions, including Wari Chora, Abong Chigat and others as the proposed coal mining area is about 150 hectares. The area is also near the Nokrek Biosphere Reserve.
The situation was brought under control by about 10 police personnel present at the meeting.
