In the aftermath of a violent mob attack at Star Cement’s premises in East Jaintia Hills, cabinet minister and local MLA Kyrmen Shylla has urged residents to remain calm and avoid taking law into their own hands.
On Sunday an enraged mob set fire to more than a dozen trucks belonging to the cement company after one of its vehicles ran over a local resident following an argument.
Shylla conveyed his condolences to the family of the deceased but firmly condemned the violent response. “Accidents happen without intent. No one wishes for such outcomes. Instead of taking matters into our own hands, we must approach the police and let the legal process take its course,” he said.
The driver of the vehicle that is suspected to have caused the death has since been arrested.
Shylla expressed concern that such incidents might discourage investment and economic development in the area. “These acts of violence can create an atmosphere of fear among potential investors. Even if the reasons behind the incident are unclear, I appeal to people to seek justice through proper channels rather than resorting to chaos,” he added.
