Policemen in Tura were forced to apologise and reimburse a vegetable seller whose produce they had ruined during action against vendors who were reportedly still selling their goods during curfew hours.
The incident, which occurred yesterday afternoon, evoked such strong reactions from residents of Garo Hills that not only the district police and civil administration but also the Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma, came out against the act by the men in uniform, who scattered the vegetables across a public road.
“What happened is completely unacceptable. I have asked the DC (Deputy Commissioner) and SP (Superintendent of Police) of WGH (West Garo Hills) to take immediate action against those responsible and to compensate the concerned individual. Also asked them to ensure such things don’t happen in the future. These are tough times for everyone. We must be understanding and work together with the citizens of the state,” said the CM on social media post after images of the incident went viral.
The callous behaviour of the police became a point of citizens’ anger with many seeking strong action taken against those responsible for the act.
Although the current Covid-19 situation is troubling, with the district witnessing more than 2,800 cases since April 1, many residents of the region have been publicly questioning the rationale behind continuing lockdowns, with the poorer sections of society being the worst sufferers.
Yesterday’s incident brought out these frustrations, with many asking the district administration and police to not only apologise but also to compensate the victim.
Following the furore, a team of policemen visited the home of the elderly vegetable vendor today morning and tendered an apology and financially compensated her for her losses.
The DC, Ram Singh, said that, besides being told to apologise and reimburse the vendor for her losses, police should “keep in mind the situation of marginalised sections of society while dealing with the public”. He added that market timings will be expanded.
Meanwhile, the SP, VS Rathore, also apologised on behalf of the police while informing that disciplinary action will be initiated against those responsible.
“This shameful act is against the ethos of Meghalaya police,” Rathore stated.
