Fresh trouble erupts at Nartiang Durga Temple; civilians clash with police over question of priesthood

Just days after the recent dispute over the issue of priests which resulted in the closure of the temple, the famed Nartiang Durga Temple was re-opened only after the intervention

Just days after the recent dispute over the issue of priests which resulted in the closure of the temple, the famed Nartiang Durga Temple was re-opened only after the intervention of the court.

Fresh trouble took place at the 500 year old temple on Monday night after police personnel were seen explaining a situation to a group which led to a small argument among the two parties.

Things very soon escalated from bad to worse after the mob started hurling stones at the police personnel when they were ordered to lathi charge by the magistrate when the situation got heated up. Many had to flee from the spot after getting injured in the clash.

Additional SP P Syiem was rushed to the Jowai Civil Hospital after being hit by a stone and had to get three stitches on his head. And not only police personnel, but many civilians and journalists present there were also injured in the skirmish.

The 500 year old temple in West Jaintia Hills has been in the middle of conflict since the last few months as to who should take the rightful call on Bishuri puja, which has led to a clash of interest among the believers, following which the district administration was forced to shut down the temple.

The Durga Puja at Nartiang Durga Temple also called Jayantee Ma Mandir was supposed to start the Durga Puja at 2 am on Tuesday morning. As they were waiting for the puja to be performed, the devotees gathered at the premises of the Temple and tried to prevent the other newly appointed priest from entering the Temple to perform the Puja along with the other one.

Earlier on Monday afternoon, the District Administration held a meeting with both the parties at the DC’s chamber.

The Deputy Commissioner Garod LSN Dykes along with the Superintendent of Police, Lakador Syiem warned all residents not to to create any trouble and disturbs the Durga Puja festivities.

The situation continues to be tense as the authorities look to sorting out the issue.

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