Following a minor scuffle between the Kuki and Meitei communities in Shillong, Meghalaya police, led by Director General Police LR Bishnoi today held an interaction with representatives of the two communities to ensure that peace is maintained.
The DGP informed that an assurance was given by both communities to give their full cooperation with the police officers.
Police have identified six areas in Shillong where the two communities are residing, such as Happy Valley, Nongthymmai, Laitumkhrah and Madanrting, where police will station additional personnel.
Today’s interaction was held at the Naga Durbar Hall in Nongrim Hills and was attended by district police along with the DGP and students of the Meitei and Kuki communities.
“We have decided that there should not be any misunderstanding among the communities living in Shillong and other parts of Meghalaya. We thought it wise as a preventive step to invite the community leaders and student leaders of the two communities. We expressed our concern about any kind of mistrust or misunderstanding,” Bishnoi said.
He informed that this interaction was held after yesterday’s small scuffle in Nongrim Hills. Police immediately rushed to the spot and prevented this incident from flaring up.
“To overcome any kind of misperception and mistrust of leaders of both communities, we decided to invite them and hold a meeting. They have shared their concerns with the police and we have exchanged certain tips on how to go about it after the violent incidents in Manipur,” the DGP said.
Meanwhile, 16 persons who were bound over after the violence have been released after the execution of bonds from both sides under Section 107 and 109 of the CrPC.
The DGP also informed that Meghalaya students in Manipur are safe and that they are in constant touch with senior officials of Manipur.
“Today I spoke to the DGP of Manipur and they assured full safety to the citizens and today a chartered plane flew to Imphal to evacuate students of Meghalaya. We have got the list of 61 students studying agriculture and other courses and if there will be a second lot the CM assured they will be brought back till the situation settles down in Manipur,” Bishnoi said.
