HITO rally in Shillong turns violent, police resort to tear gas shelling to control situation

Protest erupted after HITO leaders were summoned by police for wearing Black Dress as uniform which is in violation of Sections of CrPC

Situation turned tense in Shillong today after clashes erupted between police and members of the Hynniewtrep Integrated Territorial Organisation (HITO).

The chaos ensued after HITO members took to the streets in protest against summoning of their leadership to the Shillong Sadar PS for wearing Black Dress as their uniform. The police reportedly termed it as violation of Section 171 of the CrPC.

Police resorted to tear gas shelling on HITO members after they attempted to storm the main secretariat building.

East Khasi Hills SP Sylvester Nongtnger, told Northeast Live, “A case was registered against HITO president under Section 169 in July 2023 and under Section 171, CrPC. So the Investigating Officer (IO) had summoned him to appear before him at the police station (PS) for recording his statement. Actually the IO had called only the President of the HITO, whereas they came in huge number. Of course we allowed 5-6 of them to enter the Sadar PS premises. After recording the statement, he (HITO president) was allowed to leave. They wanted to go the Secretariat. We intercepted them. They pelted stone on policemen, magistrate also and manhandled the lady police personnel. One of Deputy SP suffered injuries. In this connection we arrested few of them.”

Responding to the development, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong appealed to all to refrain from taking the law in their own hands and maintain peace. “Law will take its own course. I appeal all the citizens of the state, don’t cross the limit,” Tynsong said.

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